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Polyvinyl chloride (PVDC) coatings require excellent adhesion to substrates. Herein, a series of self-cross-linking silylated polyvinylidene chloride (PVMBV) emulsions with core–shell structure were prepared by seed emulsion polymerization using vinylidene chloride (VDC), methyl acrylate (MA), butyl acrylate (BA), and acrylic acid (AA) as the raw materials. Vinyltrimethoxysilane (VTMO) as the cross-linker was employed to enhance the adhesive properties. The effects of various VTMO contents on the properties of PVMBV were investigated. The results showed that the adhesion performance and thermal stability of PVMBV films were enhanced significantly with the increasing VTMO content. More interestingly, the introduction of a small quantity of VTMO enhanced the toughness of PVMBV films. The water contact angle increased could prove that the hydrophobicity of PVMBV films was improved. Further, it is important to that barrier properties of PVMBV films were effectively improved when VTMO content was no more than 3 wt%. This work provides potential applications in multifunctional barrier coatings, such as vapor barrier, water barrier, weathering, and corrosion protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Chlorinated polymers have made enormous contributions to materials science and are commercially produced on a large scale. These chlorinated polymers could be recycled as chlorine sources to efficiently produce valuable chlorinated compounds owing to their facile release of HCl. Although the thermal stability of PVDC is low compared to PVC, this can be advantageous in terms of easy and fast dehydrochlorination. Herein, we report an efficient electrochemical chlorination using poly(vinylidene chloride) (PVDC) as a chlorine source that works in an undivided cell and applies to a good number of examples. This method works on commodity polymers such as waste PVDC-PVC pharma blister film, PVDC-PO multilayer food packaging, and compression molded sheets of Ixan PVDC (with heat stabilizer) with similar efficiency. Furthermore, this method also provides the dechlorination of PVDC up to 98 %, leading to unsaturated dechlorinated material. Converting PVDC into more stable unsaturated compounds, the release of harmful chlorine-containing gases during incineration can be minimized. Additionally, this method is not only restricted to batch processes but an electroflow process for PVDC dechlorination and electrosynthesis has also been demonstrated., (© 2025 Wiley-VCH GmbH.) more...

Copyright of China Plastics / Zhongguo Suliao is the property of Journal Office of CHINA PLASTICS and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.) more...

A highly ordered carbon structure based on polyvinylidene chloride precursor has been developed to host silicon nanoparticles. The stoichiometric ratio of sacrificial H and Cl elements facilitated full utilization of the carbon content of the precursor that produced robust carbon coatings on silicon nanoparticles with excellent mechanic properties and electrochemical stabilities. The optimal sintering temperature and carbon content have been investigated. When evaluated as the anode of a lithium‐ion battery (LIB), the Si : C 1 : 2 composite sintered at 800 °C (SiC12‐800) provided excellent capacity retention of 85 % at 0.1 C after 50 cycles with an enhanced CE, which reached 99 % only after 10 cycles. The SiC12‐800 electrode maintained a specific capacity of 709.2 mAh/g after 300 cycles at 0.3 C, and delivered a high rate performance of 737.9 mAh/g and 485.6 mAh/g at 5 C and 10 C, respectively. The results indicate that polymer precursors with stoichiometric ratio of sacrificial elements have high potential for generating highly robust carbon coatings for silicon anodes in high energy density LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

In this study, an active antibacterial packaging film was developed by coating a polyethylene terephthalate/polyvinylidene chloride/retort casting polypropylene (PPR) plastic multilayer film with plantaricin BM‐1 and chitosan. The characteristics of the active packaging film and its antibacterial effect for chilled meat preservation were evaluated. Our results indicated that the barrier properties against oxygen were improved significantly and the tensile strength and the elongation at break were changed slightly. The active plantaricin film significantly (P < 0.05) decreased the viable counts of Listeria monocytogenes by 3.6 log10CFU/mL in liquid medium and approximately 1.4 log10CFU/g in meat stored at 4 °C for 8 days compared with the control. Moreover, the viable counts of aerobes and anaerobes in the meat packaged with the active plantaricin film were significantly (P < 0.05) decreased by approximately 0.6 log10CFU/g and 1.1 log10CFU/g when compared with that packaged with PPR film stored at 4 °C for 12 days. The total volatile base (TVB‐N) in the meat packaged with the active plantaricin film was significantly (P < 0.05) lower than that in the control during the entire storage period. Our results indicated that the active film could extend the meat shelf life by inhibiting the L. monocytogenes and the background spoilage bacteria in chilled meat stored at 4 °C. This outcome suggests that plastic multilayer film incorporating plantaricin BM‐1 can be potentially used for fresh meat packaging. Practical Application: Fresh meat is highly perishable product. This study developed a plantaricin BM‐1 active plastic multilayer film that can inhibit the growth of microorganisms in chilled meat during storage at 4 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Abstract Dimethyl disulfide (DMDS) is an alternative fumigant to methyl bromide that was phased out globally due to its stratospheric ozone-depleting properties. Covering the surface of the soil with a plastic tarpaulin or 'barrier film' when using a soil fumigant is typically used to retain fumigants in the soil and to reduce emissions. Emission levels depend on the film's permeability, which varies mainly according to the film's material, the type of fumigant and the environmental conditions. We used specialized laboratory equipment to test the permeability of four films to DMDS under similar temperature and relative humidity (RH) conditions present in the field: polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) and ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH). This report presents evidence that the influence of temperature and relative humidity on the permeability of four films to the fumigant DMDS: PE，PVC,PVDC, EVOH. This research confirmed that PE and PVC films are relatively permeable to DMDS and PVC was more unstable to a range of environmental condition than other three films; PVDC and EVOH films are relatively impermeable to the fumigant DMDS and the permeability of PVDC was more stable to a range of environmental conditions than EVOH. The cumulative emissions of DMDS from soil covered with PE, PVC, PVDC or EVOH were 21.38%, 27.51%, 1.59% and 1.52%, respectively. As the permeability of PVDC was more stable to a range of environmental conditions than EVOH, PVDC shows potential for use in the field with a volatile fumigant such as DMDS. Graphical abstract Image 101 Highlights • Film is typically used to retain fumigants in the soil and to reduce emissions. • Film's permeability according to the film's material and environmental conditions. • This study was the first to determine the permeability of PVC and PVDC to DMDS. • PVDC has the most potential for use in the field with DMDS. • The results provide practical guidance on the most suitable film to use with DMDS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

In this work, a membrane-based separation was investigate for Scenedesmus almeriensis solutions dewatering. A commercial polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane, having a pore size of 3 µm was used in order to allow the water passage through it (permeate), retaining, at the same time, algae biomass (retentate). The possibility to reuse the permeate for a second Scenedesmus almeriensis growth step, was also studied. The registered data evidenced the feasibility of the membrane-based dewatering as an alternative competitive technology, even though the recovery of water should need further investigations to be optimized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The variation in the permeability of a multilayered polyvinylidene fluoride/CoFeB (piezoelectric/ magnetostrictive) composite material under the action of a dc voltage is demonstrated. The driven-voltage permeability is first predicted using a finite element method-based multiphysics calculation. The simulation allows us to determine a magnetic anisotropy field of 45 Oe induced in the ferromagnetic layers by the mechanical coupling between magnetostrictive and piezoelectric layers due to the applied dc voltage. A variation of 30% for the permeability of the ferromagnetic layers is then measured using a radiofrequency permeameter and under the application of a dc voltage of 15 V applied on the ferromagnetic layers, which also act as electrodes for the bias of the polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). An additional measurement of the trilayered structure under the application of a dc magnetic field is finally performed to evaluate the magnetic field needed to get a 30% variation in the magnetic layers permeability in order to compare this value to the one predicted by multiphysics calculation. These experimental results are in good agreement with calculations and are very encouraging for the application of the CoFeB/PVDF/CoFeB composite material to ensure the tunability of microwave devices (filters, phase shifters, antennas, etc.) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Abstract Compacted graphite iron (CGI), with its superior mechanical properties, is a promising candidate to replace grey cast iron in the automotive industry. However, the low machinability of CGI compared to grey cast iron, has made this transition difficult. Built-up edge formation, combined with abrasive and adhesive wear is the main problem of CGI turning at moderate cutting speeds. In this study, a low compressive residual stress PVD coating was developed using newly introduced super fine cathode (SFC) technology. The main advantage of low compressive residual stress SFC coating, is the possibility of increasing its thickness compared to the commercial range of arc coatings (usually with a thickness within 1–5 µm) without any process induced spallation of the coating layer. Therefore, three different low compressive residual stress Ti 40 Al 60 N coatings with thicknesses of around 5, 11 and 17 µm were deposited. The coatings were characterized by X-Ray diffraction, scratch test, ball crater test and nanoindentation. Furthermore, the cutting performance of the coated inserts was investigated in finish turning of CGI. An improvement of around 35% tool life is achieved for the cutting tool with the low residual stress thick coating compared to the commercial benchmark. Progression of flank wear was studied by means of TEM, SEM-EDS, optical microscopy and 3D wear measurement. Chip undersurface morphology as well as cross-sectional studies of the chip structure were performed. This was combined with analysis of the workpiece surface. Evaluation of the results obtained would help to achieve a better understanding of the wear mechanism and built-up edge formation of the studied coatings. According to the recorded data, coating thickness significantly affects cutting tool wear behavior and the mechanical properties of the coatings. A certain thickness range, specifically within 10 µm was found to be optimum. Highlights • A new technology (super fine cathode) is used to deposit TiAlN coating under low residual stress with thickness up to 17 µm. • Cohesion and adhesion failure of the coating depends on its thickness and residual stress. • Increase in coating thickness, changes tool micro geometry and causes higher cutting forces during machining. • Thick coating under low residual stress can sustain more damage due to partial flaking and controlling BUE size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

A polydimethylsiloxane‐block‐poly(methyl methacrylate) (PDMS‐b‐PMMA) diblock copolymer was synthesized by the atom transfer radical polymerization method and blended with a high‐molecular‐weight poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF). In this A‐b‐B/C type of diblock copolymer/homopolymer system, semi‐crystallizable PVDF (C) and PMMA (B) block are miscible due to favorable intermolecular interactions. However, the A block (PDMS) is immiscible with PVDF and therefore generates nanostructured morphology via self‐assembly. Crystallization study reveals that both α and γ crystalline phases of PVDF are present in the blends with up to 30 wt% of PDMS‐b‐PMMA block copolymer. Adding 10 wt% of PVDF to PDMS‐b‐PMMA diblock copolymer leads to worm‐like micelle morphology of PDMS of 10 nm in diameter and tens of nanometers in length. Moreover, morphological results show that PDMS nanostructures are localized in the inter‐fibrillar region of PVDF with the addition of up to 20 wt% of the block copolymer. Increase of PVDF long period by 45% and decrease of degree of crystallization by 34% confirm the localization of PDMS in the PVDF inter‐fibrillar region. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry A novel blend system of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF)/polydimethylsiloxane‐block‐poly(methyl methacrylate) (PDMS‐b‐PMMA) is investigated. The results show that the PDMS nanostructured phase is localized in the inter‐fibrillar region of PVDF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

In this work, combined gradient ZrC/Ni-nanodiamond ultradispersed diamonds (UDD) coatings were synthesized on the surface of knife blades made of hard alloy WC-2 wt.% Co by electroplating and cathode arc evaporation PVD techniques to increase the durability period of a wood-cutting milling tool. The microstructure, phase and elemental composition, microhardness, and adhesion strength of the coatings were investigated. Ni-UDD layer is not mixed with the ZrC coating and hard alloy substrate. Cobalt is present in Ni-UDD layer after deposition of ZrC. The ZrC/Ni-nanodiamond coating consists of separate phases of zirconium carbide (ZrC), α-Ni, and Ni-UDD. The maximum value of microhardness of the Ni-nanodiamond coating is 5.9 GPa. The microhardness value of the ZrC/Ni-nanodiamond coatings is 25 ± 6 GPa, which corresponds to the microhardness of the hard alloy substrate and ZrC coating. The obtained high values of the critical loads on the scratch track of the ZrC/Ni-nanodiamond coating in 24 N prove a sufficiently high value of the adhesion strength of the bottom Ni-UDD layer with WC-Co substrate. Pilot testing of ZrC/Ni-nanodiamond-coated cutting tools proved their increasing durability period to be 1.5-1.6 times higher than that of bare tools, when milling laminated chipboard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Abstract To form the individual elements, that together form a zipper, a pre-formed Cu-alloy wire is sheared using cemented carbide tools. The wear caused by the relatively soft copper alloy on the much harder tool is generally quite slow. However, millions of elements are to be sheared so eventually the wear becomes unacceptable and the tool needs to be exchanged. To improve product quality, as well as minimize down time and material consumption, the tool life needs to be prolonged. To achieve this the wear process needs to be better understood. Uncoated tools used for an increasing number of shearing events have been studied in detail using high resolution SEM and EDS, to map the propagating wear and get an insight into the wear mechanisms. Transfer of material from the Cu-alloy to the tool occurs and the wear is highly concentrated to specific areas. This wear occurs on a very fine scale, limited to within individual WC grains at each event. Tools coated with PVD CrC and PVD CrN have been studied for comparison with the uncoated cemented carbide. Both coatings successfully protect the cemented carbide tool from wear, however occasional flaking occurs and then the cemented carbide becomes exposed and subsequently worn. The differences in performance and wear mechanisms between the uncoated and coated tools are discussed, with focus on the capability of the coatings to prolong the tool life. Highlights • Tools were used in zipper production to different portions of the expected lifetime. • The ground tool surface is gradually worn smooth and "polished-like" during use. • The wear is small-scale and shallow, affecting only top most WC grains and binder. • Copper alloy locally adheres to the tool, preferentially on top of cobalt binder. • Coatings reduce wear, but if substrate becomes exposed, tool wear is again similar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) coated with acrylic/polyvinylidene chloride (BOPPAcPVDC) and biaxially oriented coextruded polypropylene (BOPPcoex) films have been treated with high power ultrasound (HPUS) while submerged in water. Polymer structure and the surface morphology changes were noticed, and obtained results were correlated with the physical properties of tested materials. In anticipation of sonochemically enhanced reactions, physical-chemical profile of film samples was determined using thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, UV spectrophotometry and environmental scanning electron microscopy. HPUS-treated samples showed better thermal stability than untreated ones. BOPPAcPVDC samples sonicated for a period of 2 and 6 min and amplitudes 50 and 100% showed higher thermal stability as compared to the untreated one. BOPPcoex film surface change occurred after ultrasonic treatment of 6 min and 100% amplitude which was also attributed to the phenomenon of formation of crystalline cluster on the film surface. The implications of the results are used as possibility of HPUS treatment of packaged food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were modified by grafting to di‐glycidyl ether of bisphenol‐A (DGEBA) through 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylsulfone functionality, and subsequently were used as reinforcement in polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) to fabricate ef‐MWCNTs/PVDF nanocomposites for the very first time. Comparing to the nonfunctionalized pristine MWCNTs (p‐MWCNTS) and acyl chloride‐modified MWCNTs (ac‐MWCNTs), the ef‐MWCNTs have shown better and enhanced dispersion into the PVDF matrix, owing to the better interface formation due to the improved interaction between the tubes and the polymer chains. Consequently, the ef‐MWCNTs/PVDF nanocomposites have shown higher melting temperature (Tm) corresponding to the increased β‐phase fraction formation. This was also reflected in the piezoelectric analyses in which the ef‐MWCNTs/PVDF nanocomposites have shown increased β‐phase dependent piezoelectric constant, d33, reaching above 8.0 PC/N comparing to 5.0 PC/N in case of ac‐MWCNTs/PVDF. Similarly, a reverse trend has been observed after the percolation threshold in the conductivity of ac‐MWCNTs/PVDF nanocomposites. Contrarily, the conductivity of ef‐MWCNTs/PVDF nanocomposites have shown a regular increase after the percolation threshold with increasing ef‐MWCNTs wt% loading. In a nutshell, we have achieved better dispersion even at highest applied wt% loadings of MWCNTs into PVDF matrix upon functionalizing with epoxy, corresponding to strong interfacial interactions between the tubes and polymer chains. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E776–E794, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Abstract It is important to measure nanomechanical properties of materials for extreme environments at temperatures that match their operating conditions so that the data are more relevant than those obtained from room temperature measurements. Reliable high temperature mechanical property data improves our understanding of the linkage between the small-scale mechanical behaviour and the performance and design of advanced materials systems for increasingly extreme environments. Accurate high temperature nanomechanical measurements require significantly more careful instrumental and experimental design than at room temperature. It is important to consider (i) instrumental stability and thermal drift (ii) the test environment and its influence on the stability of the indenter and sample (iii) modifications to the experimental load history and analysis procedures to minimise the effect of greater time-dependency. In this review of best practice and published studies effective strategies for mitigating these effects and achieving reliable, validated data are discussed with illustrative examples on thin films and bulk materials operating in extreme environments in applications in the nuclear, aerospace, fuel cell and cutting tool industries to 1000 °C. Highlights • High temperature nanomechanics requires careful instrumental and experimental design. • Strategies to achieving reliable, validated data are discussed. • Illustrative examples on materials operating in extreme environments to 1000 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Poly(vinylidene chloride‐co‐vinyl chloride) (P(VDC‐co‐VC) membranes were prepared by non‐solvent‐induced phase separation and adjusted by adding water‐soluble polyethylene glycol (PEG) and water‐insoluble silicon dioxide (SiO2) hydrophilic nanoparticles. The structure of pores and antifouling performance were investigated to illustrate the effect of these nanoparticles. The cross section of the P(VDC‐co‐VC) membrane exhibited more macropores and the typical finger‐like pores turned into more vertically interconnected ones with increasing PEG content, while the number and size of finger‐like pores became less with increasing SiO2 content. Considering the filtration and antifouling experiments, the presence of hydrophilic PEG and SiO2 nanoparticles in the P(VDC‐co‐VC) polymer matrix improved the membrane performance in terms of high flux, high BSA rejection ratio, and fouling resistance. The issue of pore structure changes and antifouling performance of membranes was addressed by adding water‐soluble and water‐insoluble additives. Poly(vinylidene chloride‐co‐vinyl chloride) porous membranes with different contents of water‐soluble polyethylene glycol and water‐insoluble silicon dioxide hydrophilic nanoparticles were prepared by non‐solvent‐induced phase separation and tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Copyright of Shipin Kexue/ Food Science is the property of Food Science Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.) more...

SnO2@CMK‐8 composite, a highly promising anode for Na‐ion batteries (NIBs), was incorporated with polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF), sodium carboxymethylcellulose (NaCMC), sodium polyacrylate (NaPAA), and NaCMC/NaPAA mixed binders to optimize the electrode sodiation/desodiation properties. Synergistic effects between NaCMC and NaPAA led to the formation of an effective protective film on the electrode. This coating layer not only increased the charge–discharge Coulombic efficiency, suppressing the accumulation of solid–electrolyte interphases, but also kept the SnO2 nanoparticles in the CMK‐8 matrix, preventing the agglomeration and removal of oxide upon cycling. The adhesion strength and stability towards the electrolyte of the binders were evaluated. In addition, the charge–transfer resistance and apparent Na+ diffusion of the SnO2@CMK‐8 electrodes with various binders were examined and post‐mortem analyses were conducted. With NaCMC/NaPAA binder, exceptional electrode capacities of 850 and 425 mAh g−1 were obtained at charge–discharge rates of 20 and 2000 mA g−1, respectively. After 300 cycles, 90 % capacity retention was achieved. The thermal reactivity of the sodiated electrodes was studied by using differential scanning calorimetry. The binder effects on NIB safety, in terms of thermal runaway, are discussed. Binders, keepers: Binder selection is crucial for the sodiation/desodiation kinetics, cycling stability, SEI growth, and thermochemical stability of composite anodes in Na‐ion batteries. A sodium carboxymethylcellulose/sodium polyacrylate mixed binder was used to obtain exceptional electrode capacities of 850 and 425 mAh g−1 at charge–discharge rates of 20 and 2000 mA g−1, respectively, and 90 % capacity retention was achieved after 300 cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

A ternary composite membrane, composed of a sulfonated fluorinated block copolymer containing naphthalene unit (SFBCN), sulfonated polyvinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene (SPVdF-HFP), and functionalized silicon dioxide (FSiO2), was fabricated via a simple solution casting method for use as a suitable proton exchange membrane in low-humidity fuel cells. The morphological and structural characterizations verify the successful formation of the ternary composite membrane. TGA and DSC analyses revealed the suitability of the materials for fuel cell applications. The increased water uptake, IEC, and proton conductivity values with increasing hydrophilicity of membranes were obtained by thorough measurements. The fabricated ternary composite membrane containing 10 wt% FSiO2 exhibited a superior proton conductivity (12.3 mS/cm) under dehydrated conditions (90 °C at 40% RH) over the Nafion 117 (7.8 mS/cm) membrane, while at 90 °C at 100% RH, it exhibited a comparable H+ conductivity (93.1 mS/cm) to Nafion 117 (112 mS/cm) membrane.ᅟ [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

In this paper, a multilayer barrier thin film, based on polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF)-silicon dioxide (SiO2), has been fabricated on a PET substrate through a novel method of joint fabrication techniques. The inorganic SiO2 thin film was deposited using a roll-to-roll atmospheric atomic layer deposition system (R2R-AALD), while the organic PVDF layer was deposited on the surface of SiO2 through the electrohydrodynamic atomization (EHDA) technique. The multilayer barrier thin films exhibited very good surface morphology, chemical composition, and optical properties. The obtained values for arithmetic surface roughness and water contact angle of the as-developed multilayer barrier thin film were 3.88 nm and 125°, respectively. The total thickness of the multilayer barrier thin film was 520 nm with a high optical transmittance value (85-90%). The water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of the barrier thin film was ~ 0.9 × 10−2 g m−2 day−1. This combination of dual fabrication techniques (R2R-AALD and EHDA) for the development of multilayer barrier thin films is promising for gas barrier applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Abstract Structured plastic components, which are used for flow-optimization, self-cleaning surfaces and optical applications, are usually produced by injection molding using structured tools. A suitable technique for structuring these tools on macro and nanometer scales is laser ablation, which offers a high level of accuracy and flexibility. The influence of laser treatments for the fabrication of nanostructures on the surface properties of steel has been extensively investigated. In contrast, there are only few studies dealing with the cause-effect mechanisms between a corresponding laser treatment and PVD (physical vapor deposition) hard coatings. This work deals with the influence of a laser nanostructuring on the properties of different CrAl-based PVD hard coatings. For this purpose, three coatings, one nitride (Cr,Al)N and one oxynitride (Cr,Al)ON, as well as one CrN/AlN nanolaminate were deposited on steel AISI 420 (X42Cr13, 1.2083) using a PVD process. The coatings were structured by means of an ultra-short pulsed (USP) laser with a varying laser pulse energy (E p) ranging from E p1 = 0.005 mJ over E p2 = 0.011 mJ to E p3 = 0.018 mJ. On the one hand, an increasing laser pulse energy leads to significantly greater structural depths. This was quantified by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). On the other hand, it has been found that, in excess of a certain laser pulse energy, the universal hardness of the coatings decreases. By means of microstructural investigations, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), this effect was investigated and characterized. It was found that thermal effects induced during laser structuring lead to an increasing ratio of amorphous to crystalline domains of the PVD coating, causing the reduction in hardness. Finally, suitable combinations of PVD hard coatings and laser structuring parameters are recommended. Highlights • Laser structuring of coatings with different chemical compositions and coating architectures • Thermal influence of laser pulse energy on coating properties investigated • Increasing laser pulse energy contributes to greater structural depths. • Changes in coating properties during laser structuring explained by means of phase analysis [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Abstract: Aims: The aim of this study was to develop a plantaricin BM‐1, a typical IIa bacteriocin produced by Lactocacillus plantarumBM‐1, for active polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) films and to determine the antimicrobial effect of plantaricin BM‐1 incorporated into a PVDC film on fresh pork during 7 days of storage at 4°C. Methods and Results: Plantaricin BM‐1 solutions (20 480 AU ml−1) that absorbed into the PVDC film increased gradually and reached maximum volumes during exposure for up to 20 h. When soaked in water, the released amount of plantaricin BM‐1 from the active PVDC film reached a maximum at 20 h. The plantaricin BM‐1 active PVDC film had an obvious antilisterial effect in culture medium and fresh pork inoculated with Listeria monocytogenes. Furthermore, plantaricin BM‐1‐incorporated PVDC film was also significantly (P < 0·01) reduced to aerobic counts of approximately 1·5 log10 CFU per g after 7 days of storage at 4°C in pork meat, and the pH and total volatile basic nitrogen of pork meat were significantly (P < 0·01, P < 0·05) lower than those of the control. Conclusion: Plantaricin BM‐1 active film has an excellent effect to prolong the shelf life of pork meat during cold storage. Significance and Impact of the Study: The results of this study suggest a potential application of bacteriocin active film on meat preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Most of the installed phase change material in buildings is expensive microencapsulated paraffin, which is flammable. Salt hydrates are corrosive and hygroscopic but cheap. A suitable salt hydrate encapsulation material would be of great interest to the construction industry. Thus, macroencapsulation can be a possible and cheap opportunity. Therefore, different methods to macroencapsulate phase change material, consisting of 50 wt% MgCl 2  × 6H 2 O and 50 wt% CaCl 2  × 6H 2 O, were investigated. The investigation results show that the foils with a layer of aluminum or polyvinylidene chloride and liquid spar varnish with additives (mica, graphite, glass flakes) are suitable materials. Furthermore, liquid rubber (Noxyde®), liquid EPDM (ethylene propylene diene (M-class)) and liquid polyvinylidene chloride as well as butyl rubber as extruded tape, malleable modelling clay or injectable mass were tested. These materials are also usable, whereas liquid two-component polysulfide and other foils are not suitable. In conclusion, the supplier can decide to use foils or liquid materials based on the application, the construction material and the price. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

An atomic absorption spectrometer unit fitted with a graphite furnace module is used to perform high temperature treatment on three carbonized polymers: polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) and polyacrylonitrile (PAN). Using short pulses up to 45 s, we heat small samples to a maximum of 3000 °C. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffractometry are used to track the growth of crystallites in the materials as a function of the heating temperature. We observe the well-known behaviour of large crystalline graphite growth in PVC-derived samples and the formation of curved graphitic layers in PVDC- and PAN-derived samples. This graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometer approach is an attractive alternative to conventional laboratory-scale graphite furnaces in research of high temperature treatment of carbon and other refractory materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Abstract: To improve the electrochemical performance of pure poly[(vinylidene fluoride)‐co‐hexafluoropropylene] (P(VDF‐HFP))‐based gel polymer electrolytes, different amounts of monodispersed ZrObscript>2 nanoparticles were introduced to fabricate P(VDF‐HFP)/ZrO2 composite polymer electrolytes (CPEs) using the phase inversion method and activated processes, in which the monodispersed ZrO2 nanoparticles were synthesized by an easy route without any chelating agents or surfactants, and confirmed using scanning electron microscopy, particle size distribution measurement and X‐ray diffraction. The characterization results show that the as‐fabricated CPE membranes present not only an abundant porous structure, but also an improved mechanical strength. In particular, sample CPE‐5 presents the best properties when the doped content of the monodispersed ZrO2 nanoparticles reaches 5 wt% in the polymer matrix, in which the liquid uptake and ionic conductivity at room temperature are about 192.4% and 3.926 mS cm−1, and the electrochemical working window and thermal decomposition temperature can increase to 5.1 V and 420 °C, respectively. Moreover, an assembled LiCoO2/CPE‐5/Li coin cell can deliver excellent rate and cycling performance, in which the discharge specific capacity of the cell can show about 83.95% capacity retention at 2.0 C after 85 cycles. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The compositional effect of blending plasticized poly (vinylidenefluoride- co -hexafluoropropylene) (PVdF-HFP) with different wt% of poly(ethyl methaacrylate) (PEMA) on its electrical properties was studied through AC impedance analysis. The maximum ionic conductivity of 2.14 × 10 −2  S/cm at 303 K was found for 5 wt% of PEMA blended film which almost one order higher than the plasticized PVdF-HFP film with no blending (3.15 × 10 −3  S/cm). However, blending of 10 wt% of PEMA dropped the conductivity to (5.12 × 10 −4  S/cm). This drastic change in conductivity was explained in detail by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analysis. The dielectric studies showed increase in side chain movements of the host polymer PVdF-HFP for 5 wt% of PEMA blending. However, this segmental motion was found hindered for 10 wt% of PEMA due to steric effect. TG-DTA shows the thermal stability of the plasticized polymer membrane to be increased for the addition of 5 wt% PEMA. Lithium metal polymer cell was made using the optimized blend membrane as an electrolyte with LiV 3 O 8 as cathode and Li metal as anode. The lithium metal polymer cell was found to deliver the specific discharge capacity of 223 mAh/g at the second cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) polymer films were exposed to ultra-violet light (UV–C light of wavelength 254 nm) in air for different exposure times varying from 1 h up to 6 h. These films were characterized by using ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), as well as powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. XRD scans reveal that the degree of crystallinity (X c) increased from 4.7% up to 28.6% on increasing the UV exposure time from 1 h up to 4 h, and a further increase in the exposure time causes a decrease in its value. Analysis of the SEM images revealed an increase in particle size (chemically modified regions) on increased the UV exposure time of PVDC films from 1 h up to 6 h, and the maximum size of these regions were observed for an exposure time of 4 h. The SEM images showed a damaged PVDC surface, the formation of cotton-like fibrous regions, as well as many cracks due to the photo-degradation of polymeric chains. FTIR scans reveal the formation of hydrogen bonded hydroxyl groups as well as carbonyl structures in the PVDC sample on exposure to UV-C radiation. For the study of modification in band structure of the UV irradiated PVDC films, UV–Visible spectroscopy was used. It was found that the optical band gap decreases from 4.70 eV down to 3.92 eV, as obtained from the plot of √ε i hν versus hν. The penetration depth (δ) decreased from 0.0074 cm down to 0.0035 cm at 4.88eV, the energy corresponding to incident UV-C radiation. The calculation of percentage decrease in the value of δ with respect to wavelength and with variation in UV-C exposure time reveals that UV-C irradiated PVDC films are good radiation shields against both UV-A and UV-B electromagnetic radiation. The study of refractive index with respect to wavelength reveals that UV irradiation of PVDC films is an effective method to modify the refractive index of PVDC, thereby making the material more suitable for use in different optical applications. The optical dielectric constant was studied systematically, which indicated that the energy storage properties of the PVDC films can be tuned and tailored by UV-C radiation. Details are discussed. • The optical band gap of PVDC decreased from 4.70 eV down to 3.92 eV on UV-C exposure for 6 h. • The degree of crystallinity of PVDC increased from 4.7% up to 28.6% for 0–6 h of UV-C exposure. • UV-C irradiated PVDC films are good radiation shields against both UV-A and UV-B EM radiation. • Cotton-like fibrous regions are observed in SEM images after UV irradiation of the PVDC film. • On exposure of PVDC to UV-C, formation of hydroxyl and carbonyl groups occur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

• Filler-free composite coating was prepared by introducing crystalline phase. • Block copolymer enables the composite coating to keep high adhesion strength. • EP/PVDCM composite coating exhibits excellent long-term anticorrosion. • The oxygen barrier property was enhanced due to the dense crystalline phase. The corrosion of metals is extremely serious in high-pressure air injection oil recovery, compressed air energy storage and other harsh oxygen (O 2) environments. Herein, epoxy resin (EP) used as the continuous phase, vinylidene chloride (VDC) and methacrylate (MA) copolymer (denoted as PVDCM) as the dispersed phase, an EP/PVDCM composite coating containing crystalline phase was prepared by spin-coating method. The VDC chains were arranged regularly into dense crystalline regions under the action of polar covalency, which was conducive to extending the permeability path and reducing the permeation of O 2 and corrosive media. Meanwhile, EP/PVDCM composite coating had good hydrophobicity, which can further prevent the infiltration of O 2 and corrosive media dissolved in water. In addition, EP improved the poor adhesion of crystalline polymers. The hydrogen bonding between MA and EP enhanced the interface bonding strength in the coating and lessened the penetration rate of O 2 and corrosive media into the interface between the coating and the steel plate. Results showed that the |Z| 0.01Hz value of EP/PVDCM composite coating still remained above 1010 ohm·cm2 after immersed in 12 wt% NaCl solution at 90 °C for 30 days. The O 2 permeability coefficient decreased by 89.65% compared with pure EP. This research provides a novel direction for the domains of filler-free anti-corrosion and O 2 barrier coatings and possesses a superior industrial application prospect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

In this study, a new alternative nonwoven based on engineering plastic polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) was explored as the support to construct high performance and safety separator for the first time. By the method of physical coating polymer poly(vinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP) and inorganic nanoparticle SiO 2 on the support, the designed composite separator was successfully obtained for lithium ion battery. Systematic investigations ranging from physical properties, thermal properties to electrochemical performances were carried out. It was found that compared with commercialized polyolefin separator, PPS nonwoven-based composite separator possessed higher porosity, air permeability, improved electrolyte wettability and electrolyte uptake, thus being helpful for lithium ion transfer between electrodes and increasing the ionic conductivity. These behaviors accordingly endowed battery with superior discharge capacity at various discharge current rates from 0.2 C to 2 C. Moreover, the composite separator was observed to exhibit excellent dimensional stability even after thermal treatment at 250 °C and present good flame retardant ability. The afore-mentioned outstanding performances of PPS nonwoven-based composite separator would shed light on the development of high power lithium ion battery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Rapid and convenient removal of organic dyes from water still remains a great challenge. The fast degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) with NaBH4 as a reducing agent catalyzed by a catalytic membrane fabricated by poly(dopamine)-modified poly(vinylidene difluoride) (PVDF) powders and silver nanoparticles (NPs) is described. Results indicate that the catalytic membrane shows an excellent performance for RhB degradation under a static state and cross-flow catalysis. Compared to static catalysis, cross-flow catalysis can efficiently enhance the degradation of RhB due to the silver NPs and the high flowing rate of reactants on the membrane surface. The penetrated fluid can be directly excluded due to the RhB with a high conversion coming out from the membrane pores with silver NPs. The convenient operation avoids additional steps to separate catalysts from the system and, therefore, has a promising potential in degradation of organic dyes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Investigation was focused on the impact of high power ultrasound (HPUS), also called thermosonication, on the oxygen permeation properties (permeability, solubility and diffusion coefficients) of barrier films aimed for food packaging. For this purpose, biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) coated with acrylic/polyvinylidene chloride (BOPPAcPVDC) and biaxially oriented coextruded polypropylene (BOPPcoex)were used. The physical-chemical profile of the sampleswas determined using goniometry. There is a significant impact only of extreme HPUS conditions (the longest time and the highest amplitude) on the permeability, solubility and diffusion coefficients of oxygen through the BOPP films. The highest influence on the oxygen permeability in both investigated BOPP samples involved an HPUS with an amplitude of 100% during a 6min treatment. However, BOPP samples showed different sensitivities at lower HPUS treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The effects of the precursor composition and pyrolysis conditions on the properties of the polyvinylidene chloride copolymer (PVDC) derived carbon materials were systematically investigated. A set of eighteen carbon molecular sieve (CMS) adsorbents, chosen using design of experiment (DOE) methodology, was synthesized by direct pyrolysis of PVDC copolymer beads. High throughput transient adsorption measurements were conducted on the eighteen CMS adsorbents using ten probe gas molecules with kinetic diameters ranging from 3.3 to 6.2 Å. Results revealed that the effective micropore size of the resultant CMS adsorbents was controlled by two factors; pyrolysis temperature and precursor crystallinity, which was in turn controlled by comonomer type and content. The effective micropore sizes of these CMS adsorbents were in the range of 4.0–6.2 Å. For propylene/propane separations, one material from this study (CMS-18) gave a substantial improvement in performance over two commercial materials (MSC-4K and zeolite 4A), as determined by separation factor, propylene capacity, and working capacity. Relative to MSC-4K, the new CMS-18 material has 8.5 times higher C 3 H 6 /C 3 H 8 separation factor, 1.5 times propylene capacity, and 2.3 times working capacity. Relative to zeolite 4A, the new CMS-18 material gave 1.5 times propylene capacity, and 16.7 times working capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Experimentally, there is no consensus to find out which of the α and β crystal phases of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) exhibits the highest melting temperature. To unveil this ambiguity, we use an established procedure based on achieving the Gibbs-Thomson equation from molecular dynamics simulation on pure crystals and crystals containing 10% of regioisomerism defects. The rightness of the protocol is confirmed by the agreement with experimental data. We thus show that in pure crystals, it is the α form that exhibits the highest melting temperature. However, insertion of regioisomerism defects inside crystals influences more the value of the melting point of the α form than for the β crystal. The pure and altered β phase then show the highest melting temperature. This conclusion explains the experimental difficulty on finding which of the α and β crystal forms displays the highest melting temperature, since PVDF samples always contain regioisomerism defects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Decomposition of poly(vinylidene fluoride- ter -hexafluoropropylene- ter -tetrafluoroethylene) terpolymer, a typical fluoroelastomer with high flexibility and high resistance to permeation of oil and excellent adhesive ability to other materials, in subcritical water (SubCW) was studied as a first example of the decomposition of the terpolymer with the aim of developing a technique to recover the fluorine element. Compared to the common fluoropolymers such as poly(vinylidene fluoride), the terpolymer was considerably stable in SubCW. 19 F NMR spectral analysis of the decomposition products obtained from the reaction at 300 °C was carried out to better understand the decomposition mechanism. When the reaction was performed in SubCW at 300 °C for 6 h under argon, only a negligible amount of F − ions (1%) was released. Addition of H 2 O 2 into the reaction system accelerated the mineralization of the terpolymer to form F − and CO 2 . Apart from these major products, small amounts of malonic acid and CF 3 H were detected. When this polymer was heated in SubCW at 350 °C with 4.0 M H 2 O 2 , both the yields of F − and CO 2 reached up to 95%. These features indicate a quasi-complete mineralization of the terpolymer. Furthermore, the reaction in the presence of 4.0 M H 2 O 2 and stoichiometric amount of Ca(OH) 2 at 350 °C for 18 h resulted in the formation of pure CaF 2 , a raw material for hydrofluoric acid, in 84% yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Interlaced carbon nanotube electrodes (ICE) were prepared by vacuum filtering a well-dispersed carbon nanotube-Nafion solution through a laser-cut acrylic stencil onto a commercial polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) microfiltration (MF) membrane. Dead-end filtration was carried out using 107 and 108 CFU mL-1 Pseudomonas fluorescens to study the effects of the electrochemically active ICE on bacterial density and morphology, as well as to evaluate the bacterial fouling trend and backwash (BW) efficacy, respectively. Finally, a simplified COMSOL model of the ICE electric field was used to help elucidate the antifouling mechanism in solution. At 2 V DC and AC (total cell potential), the average bacterial log removal of the ICE-PVDF increased by ~1 log compared to the control PVDF (3.5-4 log). Bacterial surface density was affected by the presence and polarity of DC electric potential, being 87-90% lower on the ICE cathode and 59-93% lower on the ICE anode than that on the PVDF after filtration, and BW further reduced the density on the cathode significantly. The optimal operating conditions (2 V AC) reduced the fouling rate by 75% versus the control and achieved up to 96% fouling resistance recovery (FRR) during BW at 8 V AC using 155 mM NaCl. The antifouling performance should mainly be due to electrokinetic effects, and the electric field simulation by COMSOL model suggested electrophoresis and dielectrophoresis as likely mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Plasma spray-physical vapor deposition (PS-PVD) is a unique processing method that bridges the gap between conventional thermal spray and vapor phase methods, and enables highly tailorable coatings composed of a variety of materials in thin, dense layers or columnar microstructures with modification of the processing conditions. The strengths of this processing technique are material and microstructural flexibility, deposition speed, and potential for non-line-of-sight (NLOS) capability by vaporization of the feedstock material. The NLOS capability of PS-PVD is investigated here using yttria-stabilized zirconia and gadolinium zirconate, which are materials of interest for turbine engine applications. PS-PVD coatings were applied to static cylindrical substrates approximately 6-19 mm in diameter to study the coating morphology as a function of angle. In addition, coatings were deposited on flat substrates under various impingement configurations. Impingement angle had significant effects on the deposition mode, and microscopy of coatings indicated that there was a shift in the deposition mode at approximately 90° from incidence on the cylindrical samples, which may indicate the onset of more turbulent flow and PVD-like growth. Coatings deposited at non-perpendicular angles exhibited a higher density and nearly a 2× improvement in erosion performance when compared to coatings deposited with the torch normal to the surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Modern high pressure turbine blades and vanes of aero-engines are cooled and thermally protected using a thermal barrier coating (TBC) system. TBC systems are submitted to very complex service loadings, with a combination of mechanical and thermal fatigue under complex thermal gradients, in addition to the contribution of oxidation to the damage processes. The high temperature durability under combustion environment of the AM1/NiAlPt/EB-PVD TBC system used for high temperature blades and vanes has been investigated performing out of phase load-controlled thermo-mechanical fatigue (TMF) and thermal-gradient-mechanical fatigue (TGMF) tests in the 500–1100 °C temperature range. This characterization has been performed using the MAATRE burner where massive or hollow samples can be mechanically loaded under hot gas flow conditions. This unique test rig allows for gas testing temperatures up to 1600 °C and internal cooling of hollow samples. The damage mechanisms under different TMF conditions are presented and the impact of a through thickness thermal gradient (induced by means of internal cooling) is analyzed. Moreover, a prior thermal over-aging of the whole system is investigated to mimic service degradation. It is shown in this work that depending on the tensile stress applied at low temperature, a change in the main degradation mechanism of the TBC system is observed. Moreover, the thermal over-aging before TMF tests favors cycling ratcheting in compression during thermo-mechanical cycling due to the degradation of the substrate microstructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Heteroatom doped carbon materials (DCM) have gained tremendous attention due to their highly promising applications as well as low costs, therefore, time-/cost-/operation-effective fabrication of doped carbon materials holds great meanings to both scientific and practical fields. Here in this study, metal-free DCM could be fabricated rapidly (<5 min) at room-temperature, which could engage the efficient incorporation of heteroatom during the dechlorination of polyvenyldichloride (PVDC) by strong alkaline (like KOH). Cases of N, S, or P-DCM were investigated as demonstrations, which proofed our strategy being capable of effectively incorporating in-situ dehalogenated carbon sites with any available hetero-elements. Meanwhile, major byproduct, as investigated, were KCl and water, which could be eco-friendly disposed. Since the in-situ dehalogenated carbon sites are very reactive, our strategy should be not limited to the fabrication of single or two heteroelements, and it should fit the synthesis of multiple heteroelement DCM for broad interests of DCM investigations and application explorations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

PVD coatings have been used to improve the wear resistance of various tribological systems. In general, analytical models that describe the abrasive wear behaviour of ceramic materials do not take into account the presence of superficial flaws in ceramic coatings. Flaws are pores or protuberances present in the coating surface formed during the coating process. In this work, the percentage of superficial flaws was measured using optical microscopy and was correlated to the abrasive wear resistance of the investigated coatings. Two different coating designs were analyzed, multilayer and gradient. In both coating architectures, the chemical composition at the coating-substrate interface was kept constant at 75% of CrN and 25% AlSiN, and the CrN/AlSi ratio was varied throughout the coating thickness. The mechanical properties of the coatings were evaluated using Knoop microhardness tests and progressive load scratch tests. The presence of flaws in the coatings was connected to the substrate roughness values. Free-ball microabrasive wear tests were carried out using SiC abrasive slurry with a concentration of 20 wt%. Wear rates of the coatings increased linearly with e.L c −3/4 .H −1/2 , where e was the superficial flaws fraction, L c the critical load measured in the scratch tests and H the microhardness. The coating wear rates were intensified up to 72% by increasing the interface roughness. The wear rate of 2.6 µm thickness coatings was about 120% higher than the 3.1 µm thickness coatings. This work showed that the percentage of superficial flaws was a key parameter that affected the wear rate and critical load of the coating. This result was related to the fact that superficial flaws acted as stress concentration sites that raised the local stress leading to premature failure of the coating during the wear process. The combination of these techniques afforded a powerful tool with which to develop an efficient and reliable methodology for characterizing tribological coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The electrochemical behavior of single-layer TiN, CrN, CrAlN, and TiAlN coatings on 304 stainless steel substrate, deposited using state-of-the-art and industrial size cathodic arc PVD machine, were evaluated in 1M HCl and 3.5 pct NaCl solutions. The corrosion behavior of the blank and coated substrates was analyzed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), linear polarization resistance, and potentiodynamic polarization. Bond-coat layers of pure-Ti, pure-Cr, alloyed-CrAl, and alloyed-TiAl for TiN, CrN, CrAlN, and TiAlN coatings were, respectively, first deposited for improved coating adhesion before the actual coating. The average coating thickness was about 1.80 µm. Results showed that the corrosion potentials ( E ) of the coated substrates were shifted to more noble values which indicated improvement of the coated substrate resistance to corrosion susceptibility. The corrosion current densities were lower for all coated substrates as compared to the blank substrate. Similarly, EIS parameters showed that these coatings possessed improved resistance to defects and pores in similar solution compared to the same nitride coatings developed by magnetron sputtering. The charge transfer resistance ( R ) can be ranked in the following order: TiAlN > CrN > TiN > CrAlN in both media except in NaCl solution where R of TiN is lowest. While the pore resistance ( R ) followed the order: CrAlN > CrN > TiAlN > TiN in HCl solution and TiAlN > CrN > CrAlN > TiN in NaCl solution. It is found that TiAlN coating has the highest protective efficiencies of 79 and 99 pct in 1M HCl and 3.5 pct NaCl, respectively. SEM analysis of the corroded substrates in both media was also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...