Nanocrystalline graphitic films were synthesized directly on stainless-steel plates by microwave-plasma chemical-vapor deposition. Surface treatment of the samples, coated with a thin layer of titanium, was performed by pulsed-laser-deposition technique. Field-emission measurements were carried out using a diode structure. The experimental results indicate that the field-emission properties of the films coated with titanium metal were improved in comparison with those of untreated film. The possible reasons for the improvement of field-emission properties for the sample are discussed. (c) 2007 American Vacuum Society.