Infrared spectroscopic study to determine thermal resistance of the functionalized surface of a detonation nanodiamond

Infrared spectroscopy was used to analyze detonation nanodiamond powder with surfaces functionalized by fluorine- or oxygen-bearing groups before and after heat treatment in air. Fluorination at T=500°C has a significant effect on the actual condition of the diamond surface. The infrared absorption bands associated with the fluorocarbon groups occur at 1092, 1156, 1248, and 1340  cm−1. We show that heat treatment does not have any qualitative effect on the broad infrared absorption band between 1000 and 1400  cm−1 characterizing the fluorinated surface when the sample is heat treated at temperatures up to 520°C. This can be attributed to the entire surface of the detonation nanodiamond particles being covered by saturated, strong, covalent C–F bonds arising from the use of an element more electronegative than oxygen.