Preparation and application of ultra-thin superstrong diamond-like carbon targets for laboratory and space experiments

Ultra-thin mounted target foils (of a minimal thickness of 2 nm) with enhanced mechanical strength, capable of withstanding acceleration of 20 g at 2000 cps, were made and used in particle analyzers for laboratory and space plasma diagnostics. Superstrong amorphous diamond-like carbon (DLC) films were used for this purpose, prepared by ion-sputtering deposition in a low pressure discharge at a low temperature on potassium oleate as the parting agent. In addition, these foils showed a longer lifetime with respect to sputtering with a 2.5 keV argon beam. Preparation and characterization of the DLC foils as well as some special properties are described and discussed. (orig.)