Abstract: A process of casting an article includes an iron alloy being heated to a pour temperature of between 1460° C. and 1650° C. and a fluidity length of greater than 23 millimeters to form a melt. The melt is poured into a mold and allowed to solidify to the article. The article is then removed from the mold. A process of forging an article is also provided that includes an iron alloy workpiece being heated to a temperature of between 600° C. and 1200° C. The heated workpiece is then placed into a die set and repeatedly struck with a forging die. The workpiece flows into the die cavity in response to the striking. The workpiece is then removed from the die cavity. The resulting articles and the alloy from which such articles are formed are also provided.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming layers on a target. The apparatus and method employ a direct current plasma apparatus to form at least one layer using a plasma jet containing precursors. In some embodiments, the direct current plasma apparatus utilizes axial injection of the precursors through the cathode (in an upstream and/or downstream configuration) and/or downstream of the anode. In some embodiments, the direct current plasma apparatus can comprise a laser source for remelting the layer using a laser beam to achieve in-situ densification thereof.

Abstract: A method of fabricating a battery member from a precursor comprising providing a precursor having at least one component dissolved in the precursor; and thermal spray depositing the precursor on a substrate to form a coating layer such that the at least one component is synthesized within the thermal spray prior to being deposited on the substrate.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming layers on a target. The apparatus and method employ a direct current plasma apparatus to form at least one layer using a plasma jet containing precursors. In some embodiments, the direct current plasma apparatus utilizes axial injection of the precursors through the cathode (in an upstream and/or downstream configuration) and/or downstream of the anode. In some embodiments, the direct current plasma apparatus can comprise a laser source for remelting the layer using a laser beam to achieve in-situ densification thereof.