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Diamond-like carbon layers on the path to high-performance applications
DLC and ta-C technologies are emerging as key materials for extreme industrial applications in tooling, tribology and surface protection
Diamond-like carbon (DLC) coatings and tetrahedral amorphous carbon (ta-C) systems are among the most high-performance functional coatings in modern surface engineering. They combine extreme hardness with very low coefficients of friction, high wear resistance and chemical stability. This makes them indispensable today for numerous industrial applications – particularly in metalworking, toolmaking, systems subject to high tribological loads, as well as in medical technology and aerospace. The latest developments in this field will be presented at the PSE 2026 – International Conference on Plasma Surface Engineering, which will take place from 31 August to 4 September 2026 in Erfurt.
With around 600 participants from academia and industry, as well as an accompanying trade exhibition featuring over 60 international exhibitors, the PSE ranks among the world’s leading platforms for plasma and surface technologies. A particular focus is on the further development, industrial scaling and application of diamond-like carbon coatings in high-performance and manufacturing processes.
High-performance DLC for tools and tribological systems
Metalworking remains a key area of application for DLC and ta-C coatings. Modern machining and forming processes place extreme demands on tool surfaces – particularly when machining high-strength steels, titanium alloys or nickel-based superalloys.
At PSE 2026, the latest developments will be presented that significantly enhance the performance of tool coatings. These include highly wear-resistant DLC and ta-C coatings for cutting tools, improved coatings for forming tools, and tribologically optimised surface systems for dry and minimal-quantity lubrication. Their use in sliding and bearing applications under high loads, as well as in abrasive environments, will also be discussed in depth.
From traditional hard coatings to functional carbon systems
In addition to its use in tooling, DLC is increasingly evolving from a purely hard coating into a multifunctional surface system. Graphene-reinforced carbon structures, metal- or nitrogen-doped DLC coatings, and hybrid material systems enable precisely adjustable coefficients of friction, improved wear resistance and new functional properties.
Particular focus is on adaptive tribological systems that can alter their friction behaviour under different load and environmental conditions. This opens up new possibilities for energy-efficient machine components and long-lasting industrial systems.
Industrial Scaling and Process Innovation
A key focus of development is the industrial production of high-quality DLC and ta-C coatings. Processes such as HiPIMS, PECVD, filtered cathode arcs and ion implantation are being further developed to enable reproducible, high-quality coatings with an economical deposition rate.
In particular, coating stability, defect-free coatings, film thickness and process control play a central role – factors that are crucial for widespread industrial application in metalworking.
DLC: bridging the gap between tool technology and high-performance applications
The diversity of the papers demonstrates that diamond-like carbon coatings have long been an integral part of modern tool and surface technologies. At the same time, new material concepts and process developments are opening up further potential for high-performance applications in environments subject to extreme stresses.
PSE 2026 thus offers a comprehensive overview of the current state of the art and future developments in the field of diamond-like carbon coatings – from fundamental research to industrial applications in metalworking and toolmaking. The close collaboration between research and industry creates the ideal conditions for rapidly transforming new coating innovations into marketable solutions.