Biocompatibility and sp3/sp2 ratio of laser created DLC films

Thin diamond-like carbon (DLC) films of various diamond/graphitic content were created using pulsed laser deposition method. “Diamond” sp3 concentration in region from 32% to 62% was determined using X-ray photoelectron and Auger spectroscopy (XPS/XAES). Zeta potential test was conducted to measure electric surface properties. In vitro test of DLC layers was arranged using normal human fibroblasts. The study was stressed on cytotoxicity, adhesion and cell proliferation. Correlations between sp3, sp2 bonds and surface and biological properties of DLC layers are discussed.