Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting encroachment of property perimeters or boundaries employing a multi-layer structure having an inner layer of polyvinylidene fluoride having piezoelectric properties disposed between and joined with two outer layers of an electrically conductive plastic material. The multi-layer structure is connected with an electrical signal detector and buried at a boundary or property perimeter. The buried multi-layer structure is monitored for generation of an electrical signal. Detection of an electrical signal corresponds to an encroachment of the property perimeter or boundary.

Abstract: A multi-layer structure for sensing impacts in real-time having an inner layer of polyvinylidene fluoride having piezoelectric properties disposed between and joined with two outer layers of an electrical signal conductor.

Abstract: A process for the synthesis of carbon coatings on the surface of metal carbides, preferably SiC, by etching in a halogen-containing gaseous etchant, and optionally hydrogen gas, leading to (he formation of a carbon layer on the metal carbide. The reaction is performed in gas mixtures containing about 0% (trace) amounts to 100% halogen-containing gaseous etchant, e.g., Cl2, and about 0% to 99.9% H2 (hydrogen gas) at temperatures from about 100° C. to about 4,000° C., preferably about 800° C. to about 1,200° C., over any time range, maintaining a pressure of preferably about one atmosphere, to about 100 atmospheres.

Abstract: A process for the synthesis of carbon coatings on the surface of metal carbides, preferably SiC, by etching in a halogen-containing gaseous etchant, and optionally hydrogen gas, leading to the formation of a carbon layer on the metal carbide. The reaction is performed in gas mixtures containing 0 to two moles of hydrogen for every two moles of halogen gas, preferably about 0.5 to one mole of hydrogen gas for eery two moles of halogen gas, at temperatures from about 100° C. to about 4,000° C., preferably about 800° C. to about 1,000° C., over any time range, maintaining a pressure of preferably about one atmosphere.