Abstract: A method for depositing a film of an advanced material on a surface of an article is disclosed. The method comprises placing the article within a bath having a pair of spaced electrodes one of which is formed by the article and an electrolyte containing a source of the material to be deposited. A stream of bubbles is generated within the electrolyte adjacent to the cathode. A potential difference is applied across the cathode and anode such that a plasma glow discharge is formed in the bubble region. The plasma of ionised gaseous molecules formed within the bubble region acts to deposit a film of material on the surface of the article. The method may be carried out at atmospheric pressure and does not require a vacuum apparatus. An apparatus for carrying out this method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method for depositing a film of an advanced material on a surface of an article is disclosed. The method comprises placing the article within a bath having a pair of spaced electrodes one of which is formed by said article and an electrolyte containing a source of the material to be deposited. A stream of bubbles is generated within the electrolyte adjacent to the cathode. There are a number of techniques for generating the stream of bubbles, e.g. electrolysis, ebullition, cavitation, entrainment and sparging. The method also includes applying a potential difference across the cathode and anode such that a glow discharge is formed in the bubble region so as form a plasma of ionised gaseous molecules within the bubble. This highly energised gaseous plasma then acts to deposit a film of material on the surface of the article. The method may be carried out at atmospheric pressure and does not require a vacuum apparatus. The body of electrolyte liquid acts as a source of containment for the plasma.