Recent discoveries enabling the growth of crystalline diamond by chemical vapor deposition offer the potential for a wide variety of new applications. This new book examines the state of the technology arising from these discoveries in relation to other allied materials, such as high-pressure diamond and cubic boron nitride. Most of the potential defense, space, and commercial applications are related to diamond's hardness, but some utilize its other qualities, such as optical and electronic properties. The authors review growth processes and discuss techniques for characterizing the resulting materials' properties. Crystalline diamond is emphasized, but other diamond-like materials (e.g. silicon carbide and amorphous carbon containing hydrogen) are also examined. In addition, the authors identify scientific, technical, and economic problems that could impede the rapid exploitation of these materials, and present recommendations covering broad areas of research and development.



Table of Contents


Front Matter
Summary, Conclusions, and Recommendations
1 Introduction
2 Growth Processes
3 Characterization Techniques Relevant to Superhard Materials
4 Applications
5 Research and Development Issues and Opportunities
Appendix Biographical Sketches of Committee Members