In a groundbreaking development, researchers have successfully measured the residual stress tensor in nitrogen-doped chemical vapor deposition (CVD) diamond films, a discovery that could have significant implications for the energy sector. The study, led by T. Tsuji from the National Institute for Materials Science in Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan, was recently published in the journal ‘Science and Technology of Advanced Materials’, which translates to ‘Advanced Materials Science and Technology’ in English.
The research team focused on the optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) spectra of nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in the diamond film. Using a confocal microscopy setup, they were able to observe the spatial variation of the stress tensor within the diamond film. The findings revealed that the components of the stress tensor, σxy, σyz, σzx, and σxx+σyy+σzz, were approximately 0.077, -0.39, -0.67, and 1.52 GPa, respectively. Notably, the nitrogen-doped CVD diamond film exhibited mainly shear stress in the z-direction, which is the growth direction of the CVD diamond film. Additionally, the film was subjected to compressive stress, leading to a volume decrease of approximately 0.073%.
“This research provides a deeper understanding of the stress distribution in nitrogen-doped CVD diamond films,” said T. Tsuji, the lead author of the study. “By comprehending these stress mechanisms, we can potentially enhance the performance and durability of diamond-based materials used in various industrial applications.”
The implications of this research are particularly relevant for the energy sector. CVD diamond films are known for their exceptional hardness, thermal conductivity, and electrical insulating properties, making them ideal for use in high-power electronic devices and cutting tools. However, residual stresses within these films can significantly impact their performance and longevity. By accurately measuring and understanding these stresses, manufacturers can optimize the growth conditions and post-processing treatments to minimize residual stresses and enhance the overall quality of the diamond films.
Moreover, the ability to measure the stress tensor in nitrogen-doped CVD diamond films opens up new possibilities for developing advanced sensors and quantum devices. NV centers in diamond have shown great promise as quantum sensors due to their exceptional sensitivity to magnetic fields and temperature changes. By precisely controlling the stress distribution within the diamond film, researchers can potentially enhance the sensitivity and stability of these quantum sensors, paving the way for innovative applications in quantum computing, magnetic imaging, and environmental monitoring.
“This study not only advances our fundamental understanding of stress in diamond films but also has practical implications for the energy sector and beyond,” added T. Tsuji. “By leveraging these insights, we can drive innovation in materials science and engineering, ultimately benefiting various industries.”
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the demand for high-performance materials that can withstand extreme conditions and deliver superior performance is on the rise. The research conducted by T. Tsuji and his team represents a significant step forward in this direction, offering valuable insights that could shape the future of diamond-based technologies and their applications in the energy sector.