Abstract: Disclosed are electrolessly plated nickel coatings containing 0.5 to 3.0% by weight of phosphorus and 0.05 to 2.0% by weight of boron, coatings obtained by subjecting to heat treatment electrolessly plated nickel coatings containing 0.5 to 3.0% by weight of phosphorus and 0.05 to 2.0% by weight of boron and machine parts having sliding surfaces wherein at least the sliding surfaces are coated with the coatings. The coatings can be suitably provided on base materials composed of aluminum alloys or the like, show high hardness, high impact strength (high toughness) and improved lubricating characteristics such as sliding characteristics and, in addition, can be formed at a high rate.

Abstract: An electroless plating bath for forming black coatings containing a nickel salt and a reducing agent, which further contains a sulfur-containing compound, zinc ions and optionally microparticles, and a method for forming black coatings by electroless plating, wherein an article to be plated is immersed in the plating bath for a certain period of time, which provide black plated coatings without any post-treatments for blackening. Also provided is an article having an electrolessly plated black coating formed by the method.

Abstract: In an Fe-base alloy, Ni is contained by 28 to 34% by weight and Co by 2 to 7% by weight with an average grain size of 30 .mu.m or less. 60 to 95% of crystal grains are oriented in a range of .+-.5 to 45 degrees deviated from the ideal orientation of {100} [001]. Resultant low thermal expansion of the alloy assures high doming characteristics of a shadow mask made thereof.

Abstract: A lifesaving apparatus which enables quick escape from the upper floors of a tall building during emergencies includes a hoist device positionable on the building above the floors from which escape is to be provided, a fire-resistant rope element connected to the hoist device which can be raised and lowered with respect to the ground, the rope element including at least one attachment element along its length, and at least one container device for supporting a human being removably attachable to an attachment element of the rope, each container device including a closable entry opening.