Synthesis of DLC films by electrodeposition technique using formic acid as electrolyte

Diamond-like carbon (DLC) films were deposited by electrodeposition technique using formic acid and water as electrolyte. Films were deposited onto SnO 2-coated glass substrates at different ratios of acid and water. Effect of applied voltage during electrolysis on the film properties was also studied. The films are compact with quite smooth surface and showed enhanced field emission properties when subjected to hydrogen plasma treatment. Raman spectra showed two distinct broad characteristic peaks at 1360 and 1600 cm −1. Band gap and refractive index of the films varied between 2.0–2.5 eV and 1.2–1.8, respectively. FTIR spectra showed the characteristic peaks related both to CH 3 and CH 2 vibration modes. Field emission studies indicated the critical voltage and current ∼16 V/μm and 5.44 mA/m 2, respectively.