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In the process of high temperature service, the mechanical properties of cutting tools decrease sharply due to the peeling of the protective coating. However, the mechanism of such coating failure remains obscure due to the complicated interaction between atomic structure, temperature, and stress. This dynamic evolution nature demands both large system sizes and accurate description on the atomic scale, raising challenges for existing atomic scale calculation methods. Here, we developed a deep neural network (DNN) potential for Ti–N binary systems based on first-principles study datasets to achieve quantum-accurate large-scale atomic simulation. Compared with empirical interatomic potential based on the embedded-atom-method, the developed DNN-potential can accurately predict lattice constants, phonon properties, and mechanical properties under various thermodynamic conditions. Moreover, for the first time, we present the atomic evolution of the fracture behavior of large-scale rocksalt-structure (B1) TiN systems coupled with temperature and stress conditions. Our study validates that interatomic brittle fractures occur when TiN stretches beyond its tensile yield point. Such simulation of coating fracture and cutting behavior based on large-scale atoms can shed new light on understanding the microstructure and mechanical properties of coating tools under extreme operating conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PVD technologies, including vacuum arc evaporation and DC-magnetron sputtering, have been utilized in industrial settings since the early 1980s for depositing protective coatings. These coatings encompass a range of materials such as metal nitrides, carbonitrides, oxides, oxynitrides, and DLC, serving diverse applications such as cutting and forming tools, automotive components, and decoration. Vacuum arc evaporation generates a highly energized and ionized particle flux toward the substrate, while "classical" gas-ion-dominated direct current magnetron sputtering (DCMS) has limitations in generating ionized and energetic species of the sputtered target material. The development of High-Power Impulse Magnetron Sputtering (HiPIMS) has exhibited significant potential in addressing DCMS's limitations by enabling the production of highly energetic particles. This innovation, with its industrial applicability for protective coatings, was introduced around 2010. This paper aims to provide an industrial perspective on HiPIMS, serving as a guide for scientists and engineers in comprehending and implementing HiPIMS solutions. It covers historical context and fundamental characteristics. Basic features as well as state-of-the-art configurations of PVD systems are also described. Graphical representations of experimental results illustrate HiPIMS features, including operational modes, deposition rate effects, thickness uniformity, and sustainability, particularly in terms of energy efficiency. The discussion focuses on the application prospects, advantages, and constraints of industrially applied HiPIMS protective coatings, emphasizing cutting and forming tools, within the context of the findings presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High temperature corrosion and slag deposition significantly reduce the thermal efficiency and lifespan of biomass-fired boilers. Surface modification with protective coatings can enhance boiler performance and prevent commercial losses due to maintenance and damage. This review focuses on the development of corrosion-resistant coatings (CRCs) and anti-slagging coatings (ASCs) over the past decade. CRCs are explored through thermal spray processes that include arc spray, atmospheric plasma spray (APS), high-velocity oxygen fuel (HVOF), detonation gun (D-gun™), and cold spray. Studies on alloys, ceramics, and ceramic–metal composites are summarised, highlighting the high temperature corrosion prevention mechanisms and discussing new coating materials. ASCs are reviewed in the context of advancements via thermal spray and slurry spray methods. The mechanisms for slag reduction, testing methods to evaluate ASC effectiveness, and the necessary architecture for preventing slag deposition are examined. A lab-based rig simulating fly ash deposition onto water-cooled coating coupons for anti-slagging investigations is also presented. Further research is needed to develop and evaluate materials for ASCs effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manufacturing technology has been refined and described for the fabrication of honeycomb-based bioresorbable networks for temporal bone replacement applications. Two novel techniques, digital light processing and investment casting, were utilized to produce customized, shape-optimized cellular constructs with additional orifices promoting tissue ingrowth during osteo-regeneration. For this purpose, a conventional magnesium casting alloy (AZ91) was chosen. Numerical simulations were conducted to predict the compressive behavior of the proposed biodegradable lightweight scaffolds. Spatial castings were adjusted to possess mechanical properties comparable to the ones of cortical or trabecular bones. Two kinds of protective coatings (plasma electrolytic oxidation and organic ones based on natural polyphenols from tea extract) were deposited and characterized. They can be utilized to control the degradation rate during exploitation to achieve a predictable implant lifespan. The elaborated layers aim to mitigate the rapid corrosion of magnesium substrates by prolonging their bioresorption time and thus expanding their applicability in osseointegration. To evaluate this assumption, immersion tests in phosphate-buffered saline were performed, showing better chemical resistance of PEO coating and as-cast sample (for both mass gain by below 1%), and visible increase in mass of sample coated with organic coating (increase by almost 5%). Compressive strength results from numerical approach were further validated by experimental compression tests, showing that PEO coating deteriorated compressive strength by almost 3%, and organic coating improved it by over 9%. Results achieved in numerical approach were better than expected for stiffer sample, and slightly lower for the one with bigger pores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ni–P has been widely used as a protective coating for many substrates. The corrosion resistance of Ni–P in neutral solutions such as NaCl, or acidic electrolytes such as HCl and H2SO4, has been extensively studied. However, the corrosion behavior of Ni–P coatings in caustic media, such as KOH, has received much less attention. Typically, corrosion behavior is studied through the use of electrochemical methods with corrosion rates determined from corrosion currents and potentials measured from Tafel curves. In this work, the corrosion rates of Ni–P coatings, with P concentrations varying from 2 to 11 wt%, in highly alkaline KOH (11 M) are obtained directly through electron microscopy measurements of cross sections and subsequent correlation with electrochemical data. Phosphorus concentration affects the corrosion rate; corrosion rate increases with increasing P content, peaks out at about 6–8 wt% P, and then decreases with any further increase in P content. This behavior is correlated to internal stress levels developed in the coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A natural nano-edible coating based on fish gelatin-rosemary essential oil was developed for the preservation of blunt snout bream (Megalobrama amblycephala) fillets. The results showed that the coating treatment effectively maintained the texture stability of the fish fillets, including appearance and water-holding capacity, significantly delayed lipid and protein oxidation, and inhibited microbial growth. On day 10, compared to the CK group, the TVB-N and TVC of the CT decreased by 41.46% and 31.36%, respectively. Proteomics was used to reveal the biochemical mechanisms affecting fish quality characteristics. Bioinformatics analysis of differential abundant proteins (DAPs) showed that the effects of the coating were related to the cellular process, skeleton structure, and enzymatic activity. Meanwhile, 65 DAPs which related to quality changes were further screened out, and most DAPs showed upregulation in coated fish fillets compared to the control, including myosin heavy chain, myosin-7, T-complex protein 1, isocitrate dehydrogenase (NADP (+)), 40S ribosomal protein, and HSPs, while Prdx-6 showed downregulation. It is believed that the coating delayed and prevented the generation of microbial degradation products and reduced the damage to the protein structure by suppressing microbial growth and protease activity, thereby stabilizing texture properties of refrigerated fish fillets. The shelf life of fillets during storage at 4 °C was significantly extended by at least 30%. The study provides an innovative method for the fish preservation and a theoretical basis for the protective effect of the coating on protein structures at the molecular level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stellite 6 is a superalloy primarily composed of cobalt, known for its exceptional resistance to corrosion and wear at elevated temperatures. The current investigation involved the application of a co-based Stellite 6 coating on SS 304 boiler heat exchanger steel using HVOF technology. The objective was to boost surface wear resistance against elevated temperature. Protective coatings are widely employed across various industries to enhance resistance to erosion and wear of engineering components. The corrosion behavior of coated and uncoated steel was assessed under various conditions, including impact velocity, impact angle, and time duration, using a high-temperature air-jet erosion tester. Microploughing, cracking cutting, and hard phase pull-outs were all erosion processes seen in the coatings. Among the samples that were tested, it was observed that the Stellite 6 coating applied on SS 304 exhibited the lowest erosion rate. This study aims to facilitate the selection and optimization of coating materials suitable for applications in industry that require enhanced resistance against erosion wear under high-temperature conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conductivity chromium‐free conversion coatings on aluminum substrates were achieved by utilizing Na2SnO3 and Mo/Ti solutions. The composition and morphology of the coatings were characterized using XPS, SEM, EDS, AFM, and Raman spectroscopies. The corrosion behavior of the coatings in 3.5‐wt% NaCl solution was investigated through a dynamic potential polarization method and EIS analysis. Mott–Schottky and UV–Vis analyses were used to determine the semiconductor properties of the coatings, including carrier concentration and band gap. The results revealed that the main components of the coating were Al2O3, SnO2, MoO3, and MoO2 and the coating presented a double‐layer structure, including a transition layer close to the substrate and a compact layer on the surface. The coating also exhibited the properties of a p‐type semiconductor. The electrical contact resistance value of adding Na2SnO3 decreased from 0.4331 to 0.1343 Ω/in2 (in 200 psi), while the band gap decreased from 2.281 to 2.232 eV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atomic layer deposition (ALD) can be used to fabricate protective coatings including moisture barrier layers for organic light emitting diodes, anticorrosion layers for photoelectrodes, and plasma-resistant coating for semiconductor manufacturing equipment, which necessitates the deposition of large and thick ALD films via batch ALD. However, batch ALD for the fabrication of large-area and thick coatings exhibits nonideal film growth, a phenomenon that cannot solely be explained by transient concentration distribution within the deposition chamber. This paper describes the application of precursor "exposure" (in the unit of Langmuir, or Pa s), defined as the integral of concentration over time, as a metric to assess the growth per cycle (GPC) distribution under nonideal ALD conditions, demonstrating that the local GPC correlates well with the cumulative precursor exposure at that site. Consequently, this measure can effectively predict the nonuniformity (NU) distribution of film thickness and facilitate the determination of optimal operating conditions that ensure maximal uniformity of exposure. Under this condition, the intrafilm NU of ALD-grown Al2O3 film (nominal thickness 300 nm) was reduced to 1.2%, and the interfilm NU is diminished to as low as 3.3%. These values represent reductions of 40% and 45%, respectively, compared to the NU levels observed under nonideal conditions (insufficient trimethylaluminum, TMA exposure downstream). The plasma etch rate of ALD-deposited films is merely 4.3 nm/min, representing a reduction of one-half compared to films deposited under nonideal conditions (9.8 nm/min) with overload TMA exposure downstream leading to chemical vapor deposition-like reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Durability is still a critical factor that limits solid oxide cell (SOC) technology industrialization. In order to maintain a good level of performance for the overall targeted lifetime of about 40 kh, the oxidation of the interconnects made of ferritic stainless steel and Cr volatilization from this material to the cell electrodes have to be restricted. CeCo-based coatings were applied by PVD HiPIMS on AISI441 alloy. Their ability to reduce the thickness of the poorly conductive formed oxide and improve Cr retention was studied at sample scale by measurements of weight gain and Cr content by ICP-OES after 5000 h of exposure in ambient air at 700 and 800 °C. In the testing conditions, post-test characterization by SEM/EDX showed that oxide scale thickness was reduced when coatings were applied compared to bare AISI441 steel. Moreover, the strong oxide scale spallation observed at 800 °C with bare AISI441 steel was avoided. Cr volatilization was also strongly decreased. Post-test SEM/EDX and ToF–SIMS characterization of a short stack integrating coatings on the air side in some repeat units (RU) confirmed the limited Cr diffusion in the strontium doped lanthanum manganite (LSM) contact layer when the coating is present after 5200 h of solid oxide electrolysis cell operation (SOEC). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many next‐generation materials for Li‐ion batteries are limited by material instabilities. To stabilize these materials, ultrathin, protective coatings are needed that conduct both lithium ions and electrons. Here, we demonstrate a hybrid chemistry combining molecular layer deposition (MLD) of trimethylaluminum (TMA) and p‐hydroquinone (HQ) with oxidative molecular layer deposition (oMLD) of molybdenum pentachloride (MoCl5) and HQ to enable vapor‐phase molecular layer growth of poly(p‐hydroquinone) (PHQ)—a mixed electron and lithium ion conducting polymer. We employ quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) studies to understand the chemical mechanism and demonstrate controlled linear growth with a 0.5 nm/cycle growth rate. Spectroscopic characterization indicates that this hybrid MLD/oMLD chemistry polymerizes surface HQ monomers from the TMA‐HQ chemistry to produce PHQ. The polymerization to PHQ improves air stability over MLD TMA‐HQ films without crosslinking. Electrochemical measurements on hybrid MLD/oMLD films indicate electronic conductivity of ~10−9 S/cm and a Li‐ion conductivity of ~10−4 S/cm. While these coatings show promise for Li‐ion battery applications, this work focuses on establishing the coating chemistry and future studies are needed to examine the stability, structure, and cycling performance of these coatings in full Li‐ion cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainably enhancing condensation heat transfer performance is a major challenge in thermal management and energy systems, since typical condensation enhancement methods (i.e. , dropwise condensation with low surface energy coatings) have limited lifetime/durability, restricted compatibility with working fluids, and sustainability concerns due to the coating composition (e.g. , fluorinated compounds). The robust and scalable capillary-enhanced filmwise condensation mode presented in this work demonstrates high heat transfer coefficients for water and low surface tension liquids condensing in a porous wick. Thin porous wicks offer the highest enhancements in heat transfer, however such thin porous wicks have thickness-dependent permeability, and the effective liquid thickness of the wick depends on the shape of the liquid-vapor interface. In this study, we leverage a spatially-discretized porous media model to characterize the effect of the wick thickness on condensation heat transfer performance. The model uses a spatially-varying permeability that depends on the local liquid-vapor interface shape/curvature and the resulting effective wick thickness. We apply this model to investigate the correlation between the heat transfer enhancement and various geometric factors, which enables the design of optimal porous structures for relevant phase-change application. We also predict favorable enhancement in condensation performance with a few common hydrocarbon and fluorocarbon fluid refrigerants. This study provides fundamental insight into the effects of the shape of the liquid-vapor interface on the phase-change performance in the capillary-enhanced filmwise condensation mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon dots (CDs) have garnered extensive attention owing to their excellent biocompatibility, elevated specific surface area, and facile functionalization, as well as their diverse methods of preparation. In recent times, CDs have been applied for anti‐corrosion and obtained some significant results. In this work, the preparation methods of CDs are first briefly introduced, and the relative merits of different approaches are highlighted. Subsequently, the application of CDs in the realm of corrosion inhibitors is discussed, and the corrosion inhibition effects and mechanism of nitrogen‐doped CDs, nitrogen and sulfur‐co‐doped CDs, as well as CDs functionalized with other elements and nitrogen‐co‐doped are summarized. Finally, the application of CDs and functionalized CD‐modified coatings for anti‐corrosion and their protective mechanism is analyzed in detail. This review summarizes recent progress in research related to CDs and heteroatom‐doped CDs in anti‐corrosion applications and anticipates the prospects and applications of CDs in corrosion protection. With their unique properties and versatile applications, CDs are expected to assume a progressively pivotal role in the advancement of cutting‐edge corrosion protection technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainably enhancing condensation heat transfer performance is a major challenge in thermal management and energy systems, since typical condensation enhancement methods (i.e. , dropwise condensation with low surface energy coatings) have limited lifetime/durability, restricted compatibility with working fluids, and sustainability concerns due to the coating composition (e.g. , fluorinated compounds). The robust and scalable capillary-enhanced filmwise condensation mode presented in this work demonstrates high heat transfer coefficients for water and low surface tension liquids condensing in a porous wick. Thin porous wicks offer the highest enhancements in heat transfer, however such thin porous wicks have thickness-dependent permeability, and the effective liquid thickness of the wick depends on the shape of the liquid-vapor interface. In this study, we leverage a spatially-discretized porous media model to characterize the effect of the wick thickness on condensation heat transfer performance. The model uses a spatially-varying permeability that depends on the local liquid-vapor interface shape/curvature and the resulting effective wick thickness. We apply this model to investigate the correlation between the heat transfer enhancement and various geometric factors, which enables the design of optimal porous structures for relevant phase-change application. We also predict favorable enhancement in condensation performance with a few common hydrocarbon and fluorocarbon fluid refrigerants. This study provides fundamental insight into the effects of the shape of the liquid-vapor interface on the phase-change performance in the capillary-enhanced filmwise condensation mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed coating with fungicides is a common practice in controlling seed-borne diseases, but conventional methods often result in high toxicity to plants and soil. In this study, a nanoparticle formulation was successfully developed using the metal–organic framework UiO-66 as a carrier of the fungicide ipconazole (IPC), with a tannic acid (TA)-ZnII coating serving as a protective layer. The IPC@UiO-66-TA-ZnII nanoparticles provided a controlled release, triggered and regulated by environmental factors such as pH and temperature. This formulation efficiently controlled the proliferation of Fusarium fujikuroi spores, with high penetration into both rice roots and fungal mycelia. The product exhibited high antifungal activity, achieving control efficacy rates of 84.09% to 93.10%, low biotoxicity, and promoted rice growth. Compared to the IPC flowable suspension formula, IPC@UiO-66-TA-ZnII improved the physicochemical properties and enzymatic activities in soil. Importantly, it showed potential for mitigating damage to beneficial soil bacteria. This study provides a promising approach for managing plant diseases using nanoscale fungicides in seed treatment. Highlights: IPC-loaded UiO-66 with tannic acid-ZnII shells for precision management of rice seedling disease through intelligent, responsive release. A pH- and temperature-sensitive, controlled-release nanoparticle system was developed. Tannic acid-ZnII-modified nanoparticles penetrate into rice roots and fungal mycelium. Nanoparticles provide better control of Fusarium fujikuroi and promote seedling growth. Nanoparticles reduce the pollution of soil environment by conventional seed coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of the spatial arrangement in the physical vapor deposition (PVD) chamber on the composition and properties of coatings is considered using the example of the deposition of the (Ti,Al)N coating. The proposed method is one of the ways (along with varying the arc current of the cathodes and the bias voltage, as well as using alloy cathodes) to change the ratio of elements in the coating, and achieves this across a wide range of values. The three samples were located, respectively, opposite the evaporator with a titanium cathode, opposite the evaporator with an aluminum cathode and in an intermediate position between the two evaporators. The coating was deposited without rotating the turntable. The aluminum content in the coatings decreases from 94.2 at.% for the sample located directly opposite the evaporator with an Al cathode to 10.3 at.% for the sample located opposite the evaporator with a Ti cathode. In the coating deposited on the sample located opposite the aluminum cathode, the formation of a nitrided layer with a thickness of about 250 nm was observed in the substrate. The maximum hardness (32.3 ± 1.7 GPa) belongs to a coating on the sample occupying an intermediate position. The coating on the sample located opposite the aluminum cathode has a hardness of 16.7 ± 0.8 GPa. The coating hardness on the sample located opposite the titanium cathode is 28.5 ± 1.1 GPa. The best fracture strength in the scratch test was observed for the coating on the sample occupying an intermediate position. The nature of the coating fracture in the scratch test was studied. A sufficiently high-quality coating can be obtained without rotating the turntable, and the coating composition can be controlled by changing the position of the sample relative to the evaporators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: This research work demonstrates that undoped a-C:H sputtered coatings can effectively inhibit the metallic release from medical-grade 316L stainless steel in acidic artificial saliva without a significant change in the microstructural characteristics. Moreover, the in vitro biocompatibility with macrophages and/or fibroblasts was significantly improved. In opposition, the a-C:H:N system seems to be unfavorable, even for low N content up to 10 at.%. Hydrogenated amorphous carbon (a-C:H) has been considered a promising biocompatible coating to protect metallic alloys against corrosion for medical applications, namely orthodontics. However, there is still no optimal solution for this biomedical field; hence, the investigation remains open. In this work, the effect of a nonmetallic doping element (N) on sputter-deposited a-C:H coatings was studied concerning both salivary corrosion and cytotoxicity behavior. After a 30-day corrosion test in an acidic modified Fusayama-Meyer artificial saliva, metal release from both coated and uncoated 316L stainless steel (SS) substrates was quantified. Tests on the corrosion extracts were then performed by using monocultures of macrophages and fibroblasts, and their coculture; and cell viability was evaluated via the MTT test. Results show an overall inhibition of the SS corrosion, which enhanced the in vitro biocompatibility with a minimal effect on the coatings' microstructure. Among all the coatings tested, the undoped a-C:H coating performed the best, whereas an increase in N doping led to poorer protection against metal dissolution and a subsequent slightly lower biocompatibility. The findings corroborate that selecting the nonmetallic element N for doping C-based coatings is not a good choice for this biomedical field, even at low contents up to 10 at.%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) have received an abundance of attention because of their distinctive chiral nematic structure and exceptional optical characteristics. However, the use of free‐standing films is constrained by the inherent stiffness and brittleness. In this work, CNC films with robust mechanical properties are prepared by simply coating them with polymeric spherulites. Maleic anhydride‐grafted polypropylene (PP‐g‐MA) is used to coat CNC films. The optical properties of coated films were also analyzed using polarized optical microscope. It is observed that the circular extinction patterns for the coated CNC film were created by the radial symmetry of banded spherulites, which were responsible for the perception of the optical transmission bands of the CNC film. Interfacial anchoring plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall performance and properties of the composite system. The future development of numerous portable functional components needing improved optical, mechanical, and thermal qualities of CNC films is made possible by this protective coating approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crystallization fouling, a process where mineral scales form on surfaces, is of broad importance in nature and technology, negatively impacting water treatment and electricity production. However, a rational methodology for designing materials with intrinsic resistance to scaling and scale adhesion remains elusive. Here, guided by nucleation physics, this work investigates the effect of coating composition and surface structure on the nucleation and growth mechanism of scale on metallic heat transfer surfaces nanoengineered by large‐area techniques. This work observes that on hydrophilic nanostructured copper, despite its significantly enlarged surface area compared to smooth surfaces, scale formation is substantially suppressed leading to sustained, efficient cooling performance. This work reveals the mechanism through thermofluidic modeling coupled with in situ optical characterization and show that surface bubble formation through degassing is responsible for generating local hot spots enhancing supersaturation. This work then demonstrates a scalephobic nanostructured surface which reduces the accumulated surface scale mass 3.5× and maintains an 82% higher heat transfer coefficient compared to superhydrophobic surfaces with corresponding energy conversion savings. This work not only advances the understanding of fouling mechanisms but also holds promise for practical applications in industries reliant on efficient heat transfer processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review examines the state‐of‐the‐art sensors and sensing technologies employed for structural health monitoring (SHM) in aerospace composites, highlighting the shift from conventional nondestructive evaluation techniques to real‐time monitoring systems. The review discusses the challenges associated with composite materials, such as their anisotropic nature and susceptibility to invisible damage, and how these challenges have driven the improvement of SHM techniques. Fiber‐optic sensors, including interferometric, distributed, and grating‐based sensors, are analyzed for their high sensitivity and multiplexing capabilities, making them suitable for distributed sensing applications. Piezoelectric sensors are evaluated for their effectiveness in both active and passive damage detection methods. At the same time, piezoresistive self‐sensing systems are explored for their potential to integrate sensing directly into composite materials. The review also addresses the challenges encountered in implementing SHM systems. It suggests solutions like protective coatings, advanced data processing algorithms, and modular system design to overcome these challenges. In conclusion, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the current SHM technologies for aerospace composites, underscoring the need for sustained research and development to improve sensor technology, expand data processing capabilities, and ensure seamless integration with aircraft systems, thus contributing to the safety and efficiency of aerospace operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of new encapsulating coatings for flexible solar cells (SCs) can help address the complex problem of the short lifespan of these devices, as well as optimize the technological process of their production. In this study, new laminate-type protective composite coatings were prepared using a silicon oxynitride thin-film matrix obtained by curing the pre-ceramic polymer perhydropolysilazane (PHPS) through two low-temperature methods: (i) thermal annealing at 180 °C and (ii) exposure to UV radiation at wavelengths of 185 and 254 nm. Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) were used as fillers via dry transfer, facilitating their horizontal orientation within the matrix. The optical, adhesive, and structural properties of the matrix films and SiOxNy/SWCNT composite coatings, along with their long-term stability, were studied using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV-Vis spectroscopy, HR-SEM, spectral ellipsometry, and a progressive-load scratch test. In this work, the optical constants of PHPS-derived films were systematically studied for the first time. An antireflection effect was observed in the composites revealing their two-component nature associated with (i) the refractive index of the SiOxNy matrix film and (ii) the embedding of a SWCNT filler into the SiOxNy matrix. The curing method of PHPS was shown to significantly affect the resulting properties of the films. In addition to being used as protective multifunctional coatings for SCs, both SiOxNy/SWCNT composites and SiOxNy matrix films also function as broadband optical antireflective coatings. Furthermore, due to the very low friction coefficients observed in the mechanical tests, they show potential as scratch resistant coatings for mechanical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New anodes consisting of zirconium-doped PbO2 coating, growth on titanium dioxide interlayer, were deposited on titanium substrates using spin coating method and have been tested for the removal of ampicillin, a β-lactam antibiotic, from water. Morphological, structural, and electrochemical properties of the prepared coatings were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscope (AFM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and electrochemical impendence spectroscopy (EIS). Results showed that the incorporation of zirconium dopant had a noticeable modification in the morphology of anodes. An increase in the surface roughness and the specific active area were observed with Ti/TiO2/PbO2- 10% Zr electrode compared to other anodes. The electrochemical measurements indicated that the anode doped with 10% Zr showed a more protective coating performance than the undoped and 20% Zr-doped PbO2 electrodes. The experiments on ampicillin degradation revealed that doped lead dioxide anodes have excellent electrocatalytic activity. The major byproduct generated during anodic oxidation treatment has been identified as ampicilloic acid by liquid chromatography-mass spectroscopy (LC–MS) analysis. Results demonstrated that Ti/TiO2/PbO2- 10% Zr anode presents the best removal rate of ampicillin with a minimum intermediate amount, which leads to conclude that 10% is the optimum percentage of zirconium dopant for antibiotic wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying the function and composition of the protein corona (i.e., the set of host proteins interacting with nanoparticles) is considered a crucial step in the development of nanoparticles for medical and pharmacological applications. Evidence suggests that host proteins can alter NP stability, biocompatibility, and pharmacokinetics features. Therefore, in this review, we provide an updated conceptual, methodological, and experimental guideline for the study of the NP protein corona. We surveyed recent literature (2009–2024) focusing on in vitro and in vivo studies. We show that several methods, including shot-gun proteomics, protein identification after in-gel digestion, and TMT proteomics, must be carefully applied and integrated to shed light on this complex phenomenon. Hence, we discuss in detail the relative protocols, highlighting the importance of the experimental conditions, ranging from the administration route to basic, but determinant, parameters like the kind of biological host fluids, the incubation times and the NP concentrations. Additionally, we propose a series of protocols that involve studying the protein corona using purified serum or plasma proteins, as well as sera depleted of specific complement proteins, to investigate the role of their deposition on the nanoparticle surface. We also explore how the role of the protein corona in inducing uptake by phagocytic cells can be examined; finally, we discuss several methodological approaches to study the effects of different coatings on the composition of the protein corona. Available data indicated that it is possible to characterize and punctually study the differential adsorption of specific proteins onto the nanoparticle surface. This allows designing NP chemical coatings features to actively guide the protein corona formation, thus improving nanotheranostic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2024 aluminum alloy has high strength, processing performance, and good damage tolerance performance, but it is prone to intergranular corrosion and pitting. Therefore, the development of corrosion protective coatings is essential for the aluminum alloy. In this paper, cerium ion (Ce3+) was doped into chitosan‐modified montmorillonite (Ce‐CS‐MMT) by ion exchange method, and the corrosion protective performance of Ce‐CS‐MMT epoxy coating (Ce‐CS‐MMT/EP) was investigated. The electrochemical analysis of aluminum alloy in cerium‐containing solution showed the corrosion inhibition efficiency reached 95.52%. The result indicates the corrosion inhibition effect of cerium‐containing solution was better than pure NaCl solution and MMT solution. The corrosion study of the coating illustrates that the protection rate of Ce‐CS‐MMT/EP reached 95.82%, which was higher than that 91.83% of Ce‐MMT/EP. The result indicates the resistance of charge transfer was greater and the better shielding effect for electrolyte corrosion ions than MMT and Ce‐MMT epoxy coatings, and the corrosion protective performance was excellent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In almost all electrochemical systems for electrochemiluminescence (ECL) analysis, electrodes are connected with an external power source, either directly or via wireless energy transfer circuit. That is inconvenient and makes some applications impossible. Herein, we use galvanized iron with two different metals as both power source and electrodes to achieve a self‐powered ECL and exploit ECL for the imaging of the corrosion of protective coating of widely used metal (e.g. galvanized iron) for the first time. The self‐powered ECL enables the visualization of the deterioration of galvanic coating on iron using a smartphone and the detection of ascorbic acid with a linear range of 0.5–100 μM and a limit of detection of 0.31 μM. The devices based on self‐powered approach do not require external power supply, thus effectively reducing their volume and cost. The self‐powered ECL holds great promise for metal corrosion imaging and analytical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In almost all electrochemical systems for electrochemiluminescence (ECL) analysis, electrodes are connected with an external power source, either directly or via wireless energy transfer circuit. That is inconvenient and makes some applications impossible. Herein, we use galvanized iron with two different metals as both power source and electrodes to achieve a self‐powered ECL and exploit ECL for the imaging of the corrosion of protective coating of widely used metal (e.g. galvanized iron) for the first time. The self‐powered ECL enables the visualization of the deterioration of galvanic coating on iron using a smartphone and the detection of ascorbic acid with a linear range of 0.5–100 μM and a limit of detection of 0.31 μM. The devices based on self‐powered approach do not require external power supply, thus effectively reducing their volume and cost. The self‐powered ECL holds great promise for metal corrosion imaging and analytical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Organic coatings are widely used for protecting metal equipment and structures from corrosion. Accurate detection and evaluation of the protective performance and service life of coatings are of great importance. This paper aims to review the research progress on performance evaluation and lifetime prediction of organic coatings. Design/methodology/approach: First, the failure forms and aging testing methods of organic coatings are briefly introduced. Then, the technical status and the progress in the detection and evaluation of coating protective performance and the prediction of service life are mainly reviewed. Findings: There are some key challenges and difficulties in this field, which are described in the end. Originality/value: The progress is summarized from a variety of technical perspectives. Performance evaluation and lifetime prediction include both single-parameter and multi-parameter methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cavitation wear is causing considerable financial losses for a range of industries, such as chemical, food processing and hydropower plants. Microwave cladding process involves the application of a coating of another material over the surface of a specific material, which offers properties beneficial for high electrical conductivity, low loss tangent and excellent thermal stability. This review article is intended to provide a basic understanding of the properties of various types of microwave cladding materials. This chapter also emphasises on the characterisation of the samples produced through the microwave cladding on various substrate materials. Furthermore, this chapter describes the potential applications of the microwave cladding process in numerous engineering and industrial sectors. Additionally, this chapter also reports the potential future technological advancements in the field of microwave cladding process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of a study of layer gradient thermal protection coatings based on NiCrAlY and YSZ obtained by detonation spraying. Modern gas turbines and high-temperature units operate under extreme temperatures and aggressive environments, which requires effective protection of components from wear, corrosion, and thermal shocks. In this study, the use of layer gradient coatings consisting of alternating layers of NiCrAlY and YSZ was investigated with the aim of solving the problem of thermal stress accumulation due to a smooth change in the composition of the layers. Microstructural and phase analysis showed that alternating layers of NiCrAlY and YSZ formed a dense layer gradient structure with clear interphase boundaries and low porosity. Detonation spraying led to a complete transformation of the monoclinic ZrO2 phase into a tetragonal one, which significantly increased the mechanical strength of the coating and its resistance to thermal shocks. Sample 1D1 demonstrated excellent tribological and corrosion properties in a 3.5% NaCl solution, which can be explained by its higher density and reduced number of pores. Mechanical tests revealed stable values of hardness and wear resistance of the coating, especially for the 1D1 coating. Studies have shown that coatings are resistant to thermal shocks, but thicker layers show a tendency to peel off after thermal cycling. The obtained results indicate high prospects for the use of layer gradient coatings based on NiCrAlY and YSZ for the protection of gas turbine components and other high-temperature installations operating under extreme loads and aggressive environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface modifications not only improve the corrosion resistance of Co-Cr-Mo dental alloys (Bego Wirobond® C) but also ensure their long-term performance and reliability in dental applications. This paper describes the preparation of single-layer TiO2-ZrO2 sol–gel coatings on the Co-Cr-Mo dental alloy using the method of dip-coating. The TiO2-ZrO2 sol–gel coatings were sintered at 300 and 500 °C. SEM analysis shows that sintering at 300 °C produces a uniform, slightly dense structure without micro-cracks, while sintering at 500 °C results in a denser structure with micro-cracks due to higher stress and shrinkage. EDS confirms that sintering temperature affects the elemental composition of the coating, with higher temperatures causing the volatilization or diffusion of Ti and Zr. Roughness measurements indicate that the Ra value increases with the sintering temperature, meeting dental application requirements. Electrochemical measurements by open-circuit potential, EIS, and cyclic potentiodynamic curves demonstrate that sintering temperature and saliva composition affect corrosion resistance, with NaF and mouthwashes (Listerine Total Care Teeth Protection® and Meridol®) generally increasing charge transfer resistance and double-layer capacitance. The ceramic TiO2-ZrO2 coatings significantly reduce pitting corrosion susceptibility at physiological and acidic pH, with the 500 °C sintered coating showing better protective properties. These findings highlight the potential of TiO2-ZrO2 coatings in enhancing the performance of Co-Cr-Mo dental alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a bio-based resin of acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (AESO) mixed with three types of active diluents (Isoborneol methacrylates [IBOMA], tripropylene glycol diacrylate [TPGDA], and Ethoxylated trimethylolpropane triacrylate [ETPTA]) is used to form a protective UV-curable coating film on calcium alginate water-carrying microspheres (CA-WCMs). Calcium alginate microspheres (CAMs) have previously been used to encapsulate only ester soluble or oil-in-water core materials, thus limiting their application. After UV-curing with an increased active diluent dose, the pencil hardness, pendulum hardness, and mechanical strength of the CAMs increased. A photopolymerization kinetics study reveals that the maximum double bond (C=C) conversion rates of AESO-IBOMA, AESO-TPGDA, and AESO-ETPTA are 95, 92, and 86%, respectively, and the maximum conversion rate of C=C bond is 87% in their mixed system. Additionally, the water retention rate of the water-carrying microspheres (WCMs) increased with an increasing number of coating layers, plateauing after the number of layers exceeded four. The water retention is favorable, with more than 75% of the water stored for a duration of 50 days. Overall, the cost-effective and environmentally friendly method has shown encouraging results in the acquisition of water-absorbing CAMs, with the potential to overcome existing implementation constraints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research helps with the creation, assessment, and characterization of a new hybrid protective coating for carbon steel alloy in acid conditions. The findings of this study will be useful for both chemical and petrochemical companies as well as scientists. This study aims to protect C-steel in acid pickling solution 1.0M HCl and formulate new hydrophobic protective hybrid organic–inorganic coatings from biopolymers chitosan and plant resin guar gum. Eight coating samples of chitosan in the absence and the presence of guar gum, silica and two heterocyclic compounds are prepared at feasible operational conditions using hot melt method. The aiding additives improved compatibility between coating constituents as confirmed by using different methods of analysis. This new processing approach has addressed the problems of using chitosan in corrosion control such as solubility in acid media and low mechanical strength. Coating samples of chitosan and its composites with the heterocyclic compounds (2-Hydrazinyl-6-methyl-4, 5-dihydro pyrimidine-4-on) or (2-Hydrazinyl-6-phenyl-4, 5-dihydro pyrimidine-4-on) are potent biocides. Coating shifts corrosion potential of carbon steel by 30 mV to more noble direction relative to the active potential 520 mV of bare carbon steel surface. Impedance and polarization measurements indicate that coating samples protect metal surface as mixed-type inhibitor by adsorption mechanism. There is a good agreement between percentages protection %P of coating calculated using the values of charge transfer resistance, Rct, and corrosion current density, icorr. All %P values are above 99% for all coating samples. Guar gum plant resin increases gloss of the coating film. Silica fills the pores in the polymeric film and increases the stuffiness of the polymeric coating film by modifying the particle size. All coated samples have high contact angle ranging from 150° to 165° indicating low wettability and high hydrophobicity of coating film on the metal surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigated the effects of laser shock peening (LSP) on the corrosion resistance of lightweight metal alloys, specifically AA6061 and AZ31. LSP was performed underwater, using a nanosecond pulse laser and without using a protective coating or layer on the workpiece. The corrosion behaviors of these alloys were analyzed through electrochemical tests, including open circuit potential, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and potentiodynamic polarization measurements. The results demonstrated that LSP significantly improved the polarization resistance, and higher laser power intensities led to increased corrosion resistance and reduced corrosion rates. This enhancement in anti-corrosion performance is attributed to the formation of a protective oxide layer on the surface, acting as a barrier against corrosion. The findings underscore the potential of laser surface treatment as a viable technique for enhancing the corrosion resistance of lightweight metal alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent advances in materials science have shed light on the potential of refractory high-entropy alloys (RHEAs) to improve wear performance across varying temperatures. These alloys offer an optimal balance between strength and ductility, making them ideal for protective coatings. Despite the lightweight properties of Ti-6Al-4 V alloys, they still pose challenges when it comes to wear resistance. This study presents a lightweight coating using RHEAs made of AlCrNbMoV through laser cladding. Notably, the AlCrNbMoV coating exhibits a single-phase BCC structure and completes with diffuse regions enriched in titanium dendrites. In addition, the microhardness of the coating is measured at 792.4 (±6.5) HV0.5, showing a remarkable improvement compared to TC4. The wear rate at 600 °C for the AlCrNbMoV coating is measured at 0.43 (± 0.026) × 10 − 4 m m 3 / N / m , demonstrating a significant reduction of 91.43% when compared to the wear rate of TC4, which stands at 5.02 (± 0.081) × 10 − 4 m m 3 / N / m. The wear mechanism undergoes a transition from abrasive wear at room temperature to adhesive wear at 300 °C and then to fatigue wear at 600 °C. The study introduces new possibilities for the application of RHEAs in protective coatings, particularly in high-temperature environments such as aerospace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of organic solvents, particularly those of a non-polar nature, is a common practice during cleaning operations in the restoration of polychrome artworks and metallic artifacts. However, these solvents pose significant risks to the health of operators and the environment. This study explores the formulation of innovative gels based on non-polar solvents and cellulose derivatives, proposing a safe and effective method for cleaning metallic artworks. The study is focused on a toxic apolar solvent, Ligroin, identified as one of the most widely used solvents in the cultural heritage treatments, and some "green" alternatives such as Methyl Myristate and Isopropyl Palmitate. The main challenge lies in overcoming the chemical incompatibility between non-polar solvents and polar thickening agents like cellulose ethers. To address this problem, the research was based on a hydrophilic–lipophilic balance (HLB) system and Hansen solubility parameters (HSPs) to select appropriate surfactants, ensuring the stability and effectiveness of the formulated gels. Stability, viscosity, and solvent release capacity of gels were analyzed using Static Light Multiple Scattering (Turbiscan), viscometry, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The efficacy of cleaning in comparison with Ligroin liquid was evaluated on a metal specimen treated with various apolar protective coatings used commonly in the restoration of metallic artifacts, such as microcrystalline waxes (Reswax, Soter), acrylic resins (Paraloid B44), and protective varnishes (Incral, Regalrez). Multispectral analysis, digital optical microscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, and spectrocolorimetry allowed for the assessment of the gels' ability to remove the different protective coatings, the degree of cleaning achieved, and the presence of any residues. The results obtained highlight the ability of the formulated gels to effectively remove protective coatings from metallic artifacts. Cetyl Alcohol proved to be the most versatile surfactant to realize a stable and efficient gel. The gels based on Methyl Myristate and Isopropyl Palmitate showed promising results as "green" alternatives to Ligroin, although in some cases, they exhibited less selectivity in the removal of protective coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Superalloys go through cyclic oxidation which refers to the progression of reputed exposure of materials to alternating oxidizing and non-oxidizing environments at high temperatures. The oxidation behavior of cobalt-based superalloy coatings depends on several variables, including the environment, surface roughness, manufacturing conditions, & coating composition. Because of their higher temperatures and protective oxide layer, coatings with a greater cobalt concentration are more oxidation-resistant. The behavior of oxidation is influenced by surface roughness, where rough surfaces offer greater surface area to oxidation while smooth surfaces decrease interaction with the environment. The microstructure and porosity of the coating are further impacted by processing variables used in thermal spraying, including temperature, particles velocity, and spray distance. Adding reactive components to the coating composition, such as silicon and aluminum, and applying post-treatments like nitriding or sealing are two ways to increase oxidation resistance. A greater temperature and particle speed can lead to a denser with less porous covering, improving the oxidation process resistance. The two typically used heat spraying techniques are high-velocity oxy-fuel (HVOF) and plasma spraying. To increase the resistance to oxidation of thermal spray cobalt-based superalloy coating, some strategies have been devised, such as inclusion of reactive materials, such as aluminum and silicon, which is the coating composition. These elements may establish an oxide layer protecting the coating's appearance, preventing further oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Next‐generation Li‐ion batteries are expected to exhibit superior energy and power density, along with extended cycle life. Ni‐rich high‐capacity layered nickel manganese cobalt oxide electrode materials (NMC) hold promise in achieving these objectives, despite facing challenges such as capacity fade due to various degradation modes. Crack formation within NMC‐based cathode secondary particles, leading to parasitic reactions and the formation of inactive crystal structures, is a critical degradation mechanism. Mechanical and chemical degradation further deteriorate capacity and lifetime. To mitigate these issues, an artificial cathode electrolyte interphase can be applied to the active material before battery cycling. While atomic layer deposition (ALD) has been extensively explored for active material coatings, molecular layer deposition (MLD) offers a complementary approach. When combined with ALD, MLD enables the deposition of flexible hybrid coatings that can accommodate electrode material volume changes during battery operation. This study focuses on depositing TiO2‐titanium terephthalate thin films on a LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 electrode via ALD‐MLD. The electrochemical evaluation demonstrates favorable lithium‐ion kinetics and reduced electrolyte decomposition. Overall, the films deposited through ALD‐MLD exhibit promising features as flexible and protective coatings for high‐energy lithium‐ion battery electrodes, offering potential contributions to the enhancement of advanced battery technologies and supporting the growth of the EV and stationary battery industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Good sealing of the gas path is the key to improving the thrust-to-weight ratio and fuel efficiency of an aeroengine, which requires a small radial gap between the rotor blade tips and the corresponding seals to minimize the loss of compressed gas. Due to the extreme conditions in service (e.g., high temperatures of 1500 °C, high pressures of 40 atm, and high linear velocities of 400 m/s), problems, such as wear, oxidation, and hot corrosion at the blade tip, are becoming more and more pronounced. Blade tip protective coatings are an effective way to improve these problems. In this paper, the composition and classification of blade tip protective coatings are summarized. The design concepts and preparation techniques of different blade tip protective coatings are highlighted. The problems of the corresponding blade tip protective coatings and the advantages or disadvantages of the preparation technology are also pointed out. Then, the evaluation means of blade tip protective coatings are concluded. Finally, the development trend of blade tip protective coatings is prospected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we propose a fiber Bragg grating (FBG)-based sensor for curvature measurements. Two gratings are inscribed through the protective coating in a specialty optical fiber using focused femtosecond laser pulses and point-by-point direct writing technology. One grating is inscribed on the central core adjacent to an air channel, while the other is inscribed on the eccentric core. The bending characteristics of the two-core fiber strongly depend on the bending direction due to the asymmetry of the fiber cores. A bending sensitivity of 58 p m / m − 1 is achieved by the FBG in the eccentric fiber core over the curvature range of 0–50 m − 1 . Temperature and humidity cross-sensitivity could be significantly reduced by analyzing the differences in peak shifts between the two gratings. The sensor features a large sensing range and good robustness due to the presence of its protective buffer coating, which makes it a good candidate for curvature sensing in engineering fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing demand for renewable energy and sustainable technologies, lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have become crucial energy storage components. Despite the promising properties of the high capacity and stability of TiO2, its large-scale application as an anode for LIBs is hindered by challenges like poor conductivity and volumetric changes during cycling. Here, a rutile TiO2 composite material with a thinned carbon coating (TiO2@TC) was synthesized through chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and a subsequent annealing process, which significantly improved the reversibility, cycling stability, and rate performance of the TiO2 anode materials. The thickness of the carbon layer on TiO2 was precisely controlled and thinned from 4.2 nm to 1.9 nm after secondary annealing treatment, leading to a smaller steric hindrance and an improved conductivity while serving as protective coatings by preventing the electrochemical degradation of the TiO2 surface and hindering volumetric changes during cycling. The resulting TiO2@TC with the thin carbon layer demonstrated a high specific capacity of 167 mAh g−1 at 0.5 C in Li-based half cells, which could stably run for 200 cycles with nearly 100% capacity retention. The thin carbon layer also contributes to an improved rate performance of 90 mAh g−1 at even 20 C. This work provides an innovational strategy for improving the conductivity and volumetric changes during the cycling of TiO2 anodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine biofouling presents numerous challenges, including increased drag, reduced efficiency, and ecological imbalance. This review presents an overview of recent advances in antifouling coatings. First, essential preparation techniques such as cold spray, plasma spray, magnetron sputtering, and laser cladding are introduced, including the specific characteristics of each method. Next, the antifouling performance of Cu-doped and Ag-doped coating is analyzed. Emphasis is placed on the differences in coating composition, preparation methods, and their effects on antifouling and anticorrosion properties. The future development of antifouling technologies is also discussed, emphasizing the creation of multifunctional coatings, the optimization of coating microstructures for better performance, and the advancement of sustainable materials to minimize environmental impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multifunctional coatings based on Sn-Ni materials with and without titanium oxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) incorporation were prepared using the electrochemical deposition technique at 70 °C. TiO2NPs were dispersed in the electrolyte bath, and their influence on the surface texture, crystalline phase, and properties was investigated. Various techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDX) were used to characterize the prepared coatings. The formation mechanism of the deposited coatings has been demonstrated to be consistent with the electrochemical behavior of instantaneous growth, and the three-dimensional growth is controlled by diffusion phenomena. The anticorrosion effectiveness of the coatings was assessed using potentiodynamic polarization curves and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in an artificial sweat medium, while the bactericidal activity of the composite coatings (the ability to induce cell death) was evaluated in accordance with the ISO 27447:2019 test. The influence of TiO2NPs at a low concentration of 1 g/L on the composition, structure, and properties of the deposited coatings was demonstrated. Particular attention was paid to the relationship between the anticorrosive and bactericidal properties of the coatings and their structure composition and wetting properties. The synergistic effect of chemical composition and surface-wetting properties has been demonstrated to enhance the anticorrosive and bactericidal properties of the prepared coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polydopamine has the capacity to adhere to a large variety of materials and this property offers the possibility to bind nanoparticles to solid surfaces. In this work, magnetite nanoparticles were deposited on gold substrates coated with polydopamine films. The aim of this work was to investigate the effects of the composition and morphology of the PDA layers on the sticking of magnetite nanoparticles. The polydopamine coating of gold surfaces was achieved by the oxidation of alkaline solutions of dopamine with various reaction times. The length of the reaction time to form PDA was expected to influence the composition and surface roughness of the PDA films. Magnetite nanoparticles were deposited on these polydopamine films by immersing the samples in aqueous dispersions of nanoparticles. The morphology at the nanometric scale and the composition of the surfaces before and after the deposition of magnetite nanoparticles were investigated by means of AFM and XPS. We found that the amount of magnetite nanoparticles on the surface did not vary monotonically with the reaction time of PDA formation, but it was at the minimum after 20 min of reaction. This behavior may be attributed to changes in the chemical composition of the coating layer with reaction time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The properties of protective coatings made from organic coatings on metallic substrates strongly depend on the condition of the substrate surface. This refers to the condition of the edges, welds, and the surface in general. Edge treatment is one of the most important operations prior to the actual coating application. The coating's protective properties and its susceptibility to mechanical damage are directly affected by the edge treatment. The article deals with the problem of edge treatment of the base material and the effect of this treatment on the quality of surface finishing. The edges were modified in three ways on the prepared Kosmalt E 300 T samples. Subsequently, some samples were hot-dip galvanized. An organic coating was then applied as the final surface treatment to all samples. The evaluation of the quality of the surface finishing was carried out on the above-mentioned, differently treated edges. The results strongly indicate the importance of the condition of the substrate surface and its influence on the quality of the final surface finish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, protective coatings have become crucial in graphene‐based chemical studies. This research investigates the anticorrosive properties of coatings created by co‐depositing carbon compounds. Electroless Ni−P‐PAA@F‐GO coatings were applied to stainless steel by adding various amounts of PAA@F‐GO particles to the Ni−P bath. The coated samples were analyzed using X‐ray diffraction and micro‐hardness tests, revealing a peak hardness of 764 HV at 30 mg/L PAA@F‐GO, compared to 521 HV for standard Ni−P coatings. Corrosion performance was evaluated in a 3 % sodium chloride solution, showing that despite a higher corrosion‐erosion rate. Although the coated samples exhibited a corrosion‐erosion rate 4.7 times higher than untreated samples, the mass loss was notably more pronounced in the untreated samples. The study found that adding PAA@F‐GO particles improved corrosion resistance and durability, with optimal results at a specific particle concentration. The enhanced performance is attributed to the increased roughness, impermeability, and hydrophobicity of the functionalized graphene oxide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work focused on the preparation of novel antifouling paint based on Ca2Cr2O5 and CaMnO3 NPs as a safe protective pigment which were replaced with cuprous oxide. Three paint formulations were prepared for comparison, a blank formula without an antifouling agent (F1), a commercial antifouling formula based on 100% cuprous oxide as an antifouling agent (F2), and AF formula based on 75% Ca2Cr2O5 and CaMnO3 NPs and 25% Cu2O. The high performance and durability of the paints based on the prepared pigments were evident from their impact resistance, adhesion, pending, hardness, and chemical resistance, which were compared to the blank formula (F1). The corrosion resistance of the painted films was also investigated using the salt spray test method, and the results were promising compared to the blank and standard formulations. All painted steel plates were exposed to seawater through field tests in the Suez Canal at Port Said for up to 6 months. The results showed that the paints based on F2 and F3a, b enhanced the antifouling activity through six months of exposure. The obtained results demonstrated greater efficiency of the painted steel-based F3a than F1 and F3b, and being comparable to the standard formula (F2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eradicating Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) can cause an imbalance in the microbiota. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiome may produce multiple diseases and bacterial infections. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection and its eradication on the composition of the oral tongue coating microbiota. A cohort of 35 participants was recruited and categorized into two groups: the H. pylori negative group (N group) consisting of 12 individuals and the H. pylori positive group (23 individuals). Within the H. pylori positive group, subjects were further stratified into the H. pylori pre-eradicated group (HPQ group) and the H. pylori eradicated group (HPH group). H. pylori positive individuals were treated with a quadruple regimen containing bismuth, and tongue coating samples were collected both prior to and following treatment. Concurrently, tongue coating samples were collected from H. pylori negative individuals. High-throughput 16S rRNA sequencing technology was employed to assess the microbial composition of the tongue coating in the N group, HPQ group, and HPH group. Pertinent clinical data were documented. Microbial diversity was found to significantly differ among the N group, HPQ group, and HPH group, as evidenced by variations in Chao1 index, Shannon index, and Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA). The dominant bacterial phyla identified across all groups included Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Fusobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Saccharibacteria. At the phylum level, Firmicutes exhibited higher relative abundance in the HPQ group in comparison to both the N group and HPH group. Conversely, Bacteroidetes displayed greater prevalence in the N group and HPH group. Linear Discriminant Analysis Effect Size (LEfSe) analysis indicated a higher abundance of Romboutsia, Rothia, and Turiciactor in the HPQ group. Our study revealed significant disparities in microbial diversity and richness among the three groups. Furthermore, our findings suggest a potential association between the presence of Streptococcus, Rothia and H. pylori positive individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the surface of (Ti-6Al-4V)TC4 alloy was modified via laser cladding. The elemental composition of the coating was (TiAl)95−xCu5Nix, with Ni as the variable (where x = 0, 3, 6, and 9 at.%). Multi-principal alloy coatings were successfully prepared, and their constituent phases, microstructures, and chemical compositions were thoroughly investigated. The hardness and wear resistance of the coatings were analyzed, and the compositions and interfacial characteristics of the different phases were examined via transmission electron microscopy. The analysis revealed that Ni formed a solid solution and a eutectic structure in the Ti(Al, Cu)2 phase. These findings provide valuable insights into the coating properties. Moreover, reciprocal dry sliding friction experiments were conducted to investigate the wear mechanism. The results revealed a significant increase in wear resistance owing to the formation of a Ni solid solution and changes in the coating structure. Additionally, tensile tests demonstrated that the tensile strength of the coatings initially increased and then decreased with varying Ni content. By combining these results with various analyses, we determined that the coating exhibited optimal properties at a Ni content of 6 at.%. Overall, this study comprehensively investigated the microstructure and phase transition behavior of these coatings through various analytical techniques. These findings provide valuable guidance for further optimizing both the preparation process and the performance of the coatings. The coatings exhibit excellent wear resistance and could inspire the design of more advanced protective surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of an evaluation of corrosion properties of PEO pretreated AlMg3 aluminum alloy samples with polymer coatings obtained by dip-coating in a suspension of superdispersed polytetrafluoroethylene (SPTFE) in a solution of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone at different PVDF:SPTFE ratios (1:1, 1:3, 1:5, and 1:10). The electrochemical tests showed that samples with a coating formed at a ratio of PVDF to SPTFE of 1:5 possessed the best corrosion properties. The corrosion current density of these samples was more than five orders of magnitude lower than this parameter for bare aluminum alloy. During the 40-day salt spray test (SST) for samples prepared in a suspension at a PVDF:SPTFE ratio of 1:1–1:5, the formation of any pittings or defects was not detected. The PVDF:SPTFE 1:5 sample demonstrated, as a result of the 40-day SST, an increase in corrosion current density of less than an order of magnitude. The evolution of the protective properties of the studied samples was assessed by a two-year field atmospheric corrosion test on the coast of the Sea of Japan. It was revealed that the samples with the PVDF:SPTFE 1:5 coating had electrochemical parameters that remained consistently high throughout the one year of exposure. After this period, the polymer layer was destroyed, which led to a deterioration in the protective characteristics of the coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current goals for implementing the hydrogen economy have highlighted a need to further optimize water‐splitting technologies for clean hydrogen production. Proton exchange membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE) is a leading technology, but further optimizations of anode materials including the porous transport layer (PTL) and the adjacent catalyst layer (CL) are required to increase overall cell performance and reduce cost. This literature review describes advances in PTL development and characterization, highlighting early PTL characterization work and most common methods including capillary flow porometry and mercury intrusion porometry, optical imaging, neutron and x‐ray radiography, and x‐ray computed tomography. The article also discusses PTL protective coatings and their characterizations, focusing on platinum group metal (PGM)‐based coatings, alternative non‐PGM‐based coatings, post‐treated PTLs, and investigations into thin PGM‐based coatings. Furthermore, it highlights the integration of the PTL and the adjacent CL along with associated characterization challenges. Lastly, this review discusses future developments in the characterization needed to improve PEMWE's performance and long‐term durability are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]