Bonding of ethers and alcohols to a-CNx films

The surface chemistry of fluorinated ethers and fluorinated alcohols adsorbed on amorphous nitrogenated carbon (a-CNx) have been studied as models for the interaction of perfluoropolyalkyl ether (PFPE) lubricants with the surfaces of magnetic data storage media. Temperature-programmed desorption experiments conducted in ultrahigh vacuum using small fluorinated ethers and fluorinated alcohols have measured their desorption energies and have provided insight into the nature of bonding between PFPEs and a-CNx films. Preliminary results indicate that ether linkages interact with a-CNx films through electron donation from the oxygen lone pair electrons. In contrast, alcohol end groups show evidence of hydrogen bonding with a-CNx films. The models derived from this study can aid in the future development of both lubricants and protective overcoats to ensure that the magnetic hard disks display optimal wear resistance and performance.