Abstract: Coatings and methods for forming same are provided. Generally, the coatings are wear resistant disordered coatings of at least one nonmetallic element and a transition metal that are deposited on an article surface, such as a tool surface or other surface that is subjected to wear or friction. The resulting tools generally exhibit increased life with excellent lubricity thereby improving the surface finish of workpieces machined therewith.Adherence coatings are provided for achieving improved adherence of the wear resistant coating to the substrate.

Abstract: The present invention provides an electrode which uses a disordered active material preferably formed by rapid solidification. The active material does not need a binder to be used as an electrode, and thus, is considered self-supporting. The material also is substantially non-porous or impermeable to an electrolyte and when used as an electrode exhibits an increase in cell capacity with improved resistance to corrosion. An electrode of the present invention provides greatly improved cycle life and energy density without a significant decrease in cell capacity. Methods of making the electrode by rapidly solidifying a disordered material are also included. A method of assembling an electrochemical cell using a self-supporting electrode includes the step of producing a disordered active material and aligning the material in a predetermined position in a cell casing.