Abstract:
The invention relates to a process for forming coatings or free-standing deposits of nano-crystalline metals, metal alloys or metal matrix composites . The process employs drum plating or selective plating processes involving pulse electrode-position and a non-stationary anode or cathode. Novel nano- crystalline metal matrix composites and micro components are disclosed as well. Also described is a process for forming micro-components with grain sizes below 1,000nm.
Abstract:
A method is provided for improving the microstructure of nickel- and iron- based precipitation strengthened superalloys used in high temperature applications by increasing the frequency of "special", low- .SIGMA.CSL grain boundaries to levels in excess of 50 9'0. Processing entail s applying specific thermomechanical processing sequences to precipitation hardenable alloys comprising a series of cold deformation and recrystallization-annealing steps performed within specific limits of deformation, temperature, and annealing time. Materials produced by this process exhibit significantly improved resistance to high temperature degradation (e.g. creep, hot corrosion, etc.), enhanced weldability, and high cycle fatigue resistance.
Abstract:
Lead and lead-alloy anodes for electrowinning metals such as zinc, copper, lead, tin, nickel and manganese from sulfuric acid solutions, whereby the electrodes are processed by a repetitive sequence of cold deformation and recrystallization heat treatment, within specified limits of deformation, temperature and annealing time, to achieve an improved microstructure consisting of a high frequency of special low .SIGMA. CSL grain boundaries (i.e. 50 %). The resultant electrodes possess significantly improved resistance to intergranular corrosion, and yield (1) extended service life, (2) the potential for reduction in electrode thickness with a commensurate increase in the number of electrodes per electrowinning cell, and (3) the opportunity to extract higher purity metal product.
Abstract:
A surface treatment process for enhancing the resistance to intergranular corrosion and intergranular cracking of components fabricated from austenitic Ni-Fe-Cr based alloys comprising the application of surface deformation to the component, to a depth in the range of 0.01 mm to 0.5 mm, for example by high intensity shot peening below the recrystallization temperature, followed by recrystallization heat treatment, preferably at solutionizing temperatures. The surface deformation and annealing process can be repeated to further optimize the microstructure of the near-surface region. Following the final heat treatment, the process optionally comprises the application of further surface deformation (work) of reduced intensity, yielding a worked depth of between 0.005 mm to 0.01 mm, to impart residual compression in the near surface region to further enhance cracking resistance.
Abstract:
Se describe un proceso para incrementar la estabilidad quimica, Se resistencia a la corrosion y para mejorar las caracteristicas de adhesion, para uso en electrodos no consumibles de metal o de aleacion metalica, colectores de corriente u otros articulos metalicos usados en pilas electroquimicas. El proceso incluye granallar el articulo, despues de lo cual se somete opcionalmente a tratamiento de templado.
Abstract:
Recrystallized lead and lead alloy positive electrodes for lead acid batteries having an increased percentage of special grain boundaries in the microstructure, preferably to at least 50%, which have been provided by a process comprising steps of working or straining the lead or lead alloy, and subsequently annealing the lead or lead alloy. Either a single cycle of working and annealing can be provided, or a plurality of such cycles can be provided. The amount of cold work or strain, the recrystallization time and temperature, and the number of repetitions of such steps are selected to ensure that a substantial increase in the population of special grain boundaries is provided in the microstructure, to improve resistance to creep, intergranular corrosion and intergranular cracking of the electrodes during battery service, and result in extended battery life and the opportunity to reduce the size and weight of the battery.
Abstract:
Recrystallized lead and lead alloy positive electrodes for lead acid batteries having an increased percentage of special grain boundaries in the microstructure, preferably to at least 50%, which have been provided by a process comprising steps of working or straining the lead or lead alloy, and subsequently annealing the lead or lead alloy. Either a single cycle of working and annealing can be provided, or a plurality of such cycles can be provided. The amount of cold work or strain, the recrystallization time and temperature, and the number of repetitions of such steps are selected to ensure that a substantial increase in the population of special grain boundaries is provided in the microstructure, to improve resistance to creep, intergranular corrosion and intergranular cracking of the electrodes during battery service, and result in extended battery life and the opportunity to reduce the size and weight of the battery.
Abstract:
A process for enhancing chemical stability, corrosion resistance and for improved adhesion characteristics is described for use on metal or metal-all oy non-consumable electrodes, current collectors or other metallic articles use d in electrochemical cells. The process includes peening of the article, optionally followed by an annealing treatment.
Abstract:
Durable articles applied to the body of animals containing metallic materials providing antimicrobial properties are disclosed. Articles may comprise grain-refined and/or amorphous metals, e.g., copper, cobalt, tin and zinc, or their combinations, in contact with a fluid absorbent material. Optionally the article comprises complexing agents, gelling agents, end of life indicators and the like to extend their effectiveness under various conditions and signifies depletion of their biocidally active ingredients. Articles may be leg bands, pads, bandages, band aids or wraps.
Abstract:
A novel activation/etch method is disclosed for conductive polymer substrates and conductive polymer composite substrates to achieve good adhesion to subsequently applied coatings. The method in a preferred case involves anodically polarizing conductive polymers/polymer composites in aqueous etching solutions.