Diamond-like Carbon (DLC)

Diamond-like Carbon (DLC)

Diamond-like Carbon (DLC)

Diamond-like Carbon is a hard, durable coating that excels as an infrared optical coating. The coating combines graphitic and diamond forms of Carbon, creating a film structure without long-range order that resists fracturing. The diamond-like component provides unmatched hardness compared to typical infrared optical coating materials.

With a refractive index of about 2.0, DLC serves ideally as an anti-reflection coating for high-index infrared materials like Germanium (4.0) and Silicon (3.4). This makes it particularly valuable for first-lens elements in infrared assemblies, where environmental exposure demands enhanced durability.

As a chemically inert, nonporous coating, DLC withstands rigorous environmental testing, including 10-day humidity, acidified salt fog, and severe abrasion. Its exceptional durability is demonstrated through specialized tests like sand slurry wiper blade testing.

Andover Corporation provides DLC coating options for Germanium or Silicon lenses and windows where both durability and optical performance are critical.

Contact Andover Corporation at info@andovercorp.com for detailed specifications and quotations for your DLC coating requirements.

Diamond-like Carbon (DLC) body image
  • Fracture-resistant film structure
  • High hardness
  • Superior environmental durability
  • Excellent optical properties
  • Chemical inertness
  • High abrasion resistance
  • Military & Defense infrared optics
  • Thermal cameras
  • Optical windows
  • First-surface protection
  • Harsh environment optics