Market Challenges: High manufacturing cost

One of the major challenges faced by the global diamond like carbon market is its high manufacturing cost. Diamond like carbon coating has significantly higher production costs as compared to alternative coating materials such as TiO2 and SiC. The high vacuum deposition process and expensive raw materials such as methane that are used for producing DLC coatings contribute to their high manufacturing costs. The costs involved in setting up and maintaining the physical vapor deposition or chemical vapor deposition equipment for DLC coating production is also significant. Furthermore, the multistep and complex processes used for applying even and uniform DLC films over the substrate surfaces enhance the energy costs associated with DLC coating manufacturing. Due to the presence of inexpensive alternatives and increasing price sensitivity among end-use industries, the suppliers of DLC coatings find it difficult to transfer high production costs to consumers. This acts as a major restraint for the global diamond like carbon market.

Market Opportunities: Emerging Applications in Other End-use Industries

The diamond like carbon market is expected to witness new growth opportunities due to its emerging applications in various end-use industries. Traditionally, DLC coatings have been majorly used in applications such as automotive components, aerospace parts, and computer accessories where friction reduction and wear resistance properties were highly required. However, ongoing research and development activities are now exploring the potential of DLC in new and innovative applications as well. For instance, promising trials of DLC coatings have been conducted on medical implants and prostheses to enhance biocompatibility. DLC films are also being tested for their antimicrobial effectiveness on various medical devices. In the energy industry, DLC-coated components can significantly increase the efficiency of engines and turbines by reducing friction. DLC's versatile properties also make it suitable for various microelectronic and optoelectronic applications. Thus, the increasing scope of DLC film usage in other industries beyond the traditional ones will create prosperous opportunities for market players in the future.