The advent of low-pressure synthesis techniques for the chemical vapour deposition (CVD) of diamond has opened up a new and fascinating field of research and development. The preparation of diamond in the shape of thin films or extended wafers has enabled a variety of new applications, including optical windows, heat spreaders for thermal management, durable cutting tools, and a variety of sensors. Great effort has been made to develop new and efficient methods of economic low-pressure diamond deposition. This book responds to the worldwide interest with a comprehensive presentation of the complete spectrum of methods for CVD-diamond deposition and an overview of the most important applications.
