Nonreversing Pulsed Current Or Voltage Patents (Class 205/108)
  • Patent number: 12077864
    Abstract: Plasma atomic layer deposition (ALD) is optimized through modulation of the gas residence time during an excited species phase, wherein activated reactant is supplied such as from a plasma. Reduced residence time increases the quality of the deposited layer, such as reducing wet etch rates, increasing index of refraction and/or reducing impurities in the layer. For example, dielectric layers, particularly silicon nitride films, formed from such optimized plasma ALD processes have low levels of impurities remaining from the silicon precursor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2024
    Assignee: ASM IP Holding B.V.
    Inventors: Harm C. M. Knoops, Koen de Peuter, Wilhelmus M. M. Kessels
  • Patent number: 10947634
    Abstract: A method for preparing invisible anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) patterns is revealed. The method includes a plurality of steps. First take an aluminum substrate. Then anodize the aluminum substrate for the first time to get a first anodic aluminum oxide (AAO). Next perform photolithography so that a photoresist forms a pattern on the aluminum substrate with the first AAO. Lastly anodize the aluminum substrate for the second time so that a second AAO is formed on the pattern and the pattern becomes invisible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: National Cheng Kung University
    Inventors: Chen-Kuei Chung, Yun Chen, Chung-Yu Yu
  • Patent number: 10818952
    Abstract: Lignin-based electrolytes and flow battery cells and systems for use with lignin-based electrolytes are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: Northeastern University
    Inventors: Hongli Zhu, Jonathan Hamel
  • Patent number: 10392684
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the production of a mechanical part, comprising the following successive steps: casting of a billet of aluminum alloy with a composition (in weight %) of 0.4-3.0 Si; 0.6-2.0 Mg; 0.20-1.0 Cu; 0.15-1.8 Fe; Mn<0.5; Ni<1; Ti<0.15; Cr<0.35; Bi<0.8; Pb<0.4; Zr<0.04; other elements <0.05 each and <0.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: CONSTELLIUM EXTRUSION DECIN S.R.O.
    Inventors: Lukasz Dolega, Jean-sylvestre Safrany, Ivo Kolarik
  • Patent number: 9915008
    Abstract: The disclosure concerns a process for producing a sol-gel coating on a surface of a component made of aluminum or of an aluminum alloy that is to be coated, comprising the following steps: anodization of the surface through the application of an electrical voltage over a particular time period so as to form an anodized layer on the surface; and deposition of a sol-gel coating on the surface. In doing so, the voltage applied for purposes of anodizing is, by way of a particular potential gradient, continuously increased in the direction of a holding voltage that is maintained throughout the rest of the anodization time, in particular up to the holding voltage. The disclosure furthermore concerns a component made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignees: SUDDEUTSCHE ALUMINIUM MANUFAKTUR GMBH, HANS UND OTTMAR BINDER GBR
    Inventors: Hans Binder, Ottmar Binder, Markus Kreitmeier
  • Patent number: 8999133
    Abstract: An anodized layer formation method includes: providing an aluminum film provided on a support or an aluminum base; and forming a porous alumina layer which has minute recessed portions by applying a voltage between an anode which is electrically coupled to a surface of the aluminum film or the aluminum base and a cathode which is provided in an electrolytic solution with the surface of the aluminum film or the aluminum base being in contact with the electrolytic solution. The forming of the porous alumina layer includes increasing the voltage to a target value and, before the voltage is increased to the target value, increasing the voltage to a first peak value which is lower than the target value and thereafter decreasing the voltage to a value which is lower than the first peak value. As such, an anodized layer with reduced variation of recessed portions can be formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Akinobu Isurugi, Kiyoshi Minoura, Hidekazu Hayashi, Kenichiro Nakamatsu
  • Publication number: 20150068906
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a photocatalyst and a method of manufacturing a photocatalyst. More specifically, the present invention relates to a high surface area TiO 2 photocatalyst formed by electrolytic discharge oxidation (EDO) of a substrate comprising titanium. A flexible high surface area photocatalyst architecture comprising a compliant, cohesive, well-adhered and highly porous surface layer of the anatase phase of titanium dioxide is provided. The highly porous surface layer of the anatase phase of titanium dioxide is formed in a single step by the electrolytic oxidation of a titanium surface on a permeable, flexible, and electrically conductive substrate sponge structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2013
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Applicant: Keronite International Limited
    Inventors: James Curran, Kangala Chipasa, Antony Leigh
  • Publication number: 20150034488
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include conductive polymeric coatings and methods of making the same. In an embodiment, the invention includes a method of electrodepositing a conductive polymeric coating onto a substrate surface. The method can include contacting the substrate surface with a solution comprising a monomer, a counterion, and a solvent; exposing the solution to an electrical potential, wherein the surface serves as an electrode in the application of the electrical potential; and alternating the electrical potential between a lower potential and a higher potential to form the conductive polymeric coating on the substrate surface. Other embodiments are also included herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventor: Aleksey V. Kurdyumov
  • Publication number: 20140238867
    Abstract: A coated overhead conductor having an assembly including one or more conductive wires, such that the assembly includes an outer surface coated with an electrochemical deposition coating forming an outer layer, wherein the electrochemical deposition coating includes a first metal oxide, such that the first metal oxide is not aluminum oxide. Methods for making the overhead conductor are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2014
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: GENERAL CABLETECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Sathish K. RANGANATHAN, Vijay MHETAR, Cody R. DAVIS, Srinivas SIRIPURAPU
  • Patent number: 8808522
    Abstract: A method for forming an oxide film by plasma electrolytic oxidation includes a first step of placing an anode, which is a substrate with a conductive nitride film, and a cathode into an electrolyte of which the temperature range is from 20° C. to 100° C., and a second step of applying a voltage ranging from 50 V to 1000 V to the anode and cathode to finally form an oxide film on a surface of the conductive nitride film of the anode. The oxide film can be formed more rapidly than the prior art and has excellent crystallinity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: National Chung Hsing University
    Inventors: Fu-Hsing Lu, Jhu-Ling Zeng, Huan-Ping Teng
  • Patent number: 8808523
    Abstract: A method for forming a ZrO2 oxide film by plasma electrolytic oxidation includes a first step of placing an anode, which is a substrate with a ZrN film, and a cathode into an electrolyte of which the temperature range is from 65° C. to 75° C. Said electrolyte contains barium acetate or barium hydroxide ranging from 0.3 M to 0.7 M and sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide ranging from 1.5 M to 2.5 M. The method includes a second step of applying a voltage ranging from 50 V to 1000 V to the anode and cathode to finally form a ZrO2 film on a surface of the ZrN film of the anode. A DC power supply, an AC power supply, unipolar pulse power supply or bipolar pulse power supply is applied to said anode and cathode in constant-voltage mode or constant-current mode. The oxide film can be formed more rapidly than the prior art and has excellent crystallinity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: National Chung Hsing University
    Inventors: Fu-Hsing Lu, Jhu-Ling Zeng, Huan-Ping Teng
  • Patent number: 8784635
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for grafting an organic film onto an electrically conductive or semiconductive surface by electro-reduction of a solution, wherein the solution comprises one diazonium salt and one monomer bearing at least one chain polymerizable functional group. During the electrolyzing process, at least one protocol consisting of an electrical polarization of the surface by applying a variable potential over at least a range of values which are more cathodic that the reduction or peak potential of all diazonium salts in said solution is applied. The invention also relates to an electrically conducting or semiconducting surface obtained by implementing this method. The invention further relates to electrolytic compositions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignees: Alchimer, Alchimedics, Inc.
    Inventor: Christophe Bureau
  • Publication number: 20140174938
    Abstract: A method of electroplating on a workpiece having a sub-30 nm feature generally includes applying a chemistry to the workpiece, the chemistry including a halide ion concentration in the range of about 55 ppm to about 250 ppm and a metal cation solute species, and applying an electric waveform for less than about 5 seconds, wherein the electric waveform includes a period of ramping of current and a period of pulse plating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: APPLIED Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Callie A. Schieffer, Robert O. Miller
  • Patent number: 8702954
    Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide a process for producing a metal substrate of superior corrosion resistance and finish, and a surface-treated metal substrate obtained by the process; and a surface treatment process that is capable of providing a metal substrate of superior corrosion resistance and finish, and a surface-treated metal substrate obtained by the process. Specifically, the present invention provides a process for producing a surface-treated metal substrate, comprising the steps of immersing a metal substrate for use as a cathode in a treatment composition (I) comprising water and metal component (A), and applying electric current thereto for 10 to 600 seconds by superposing an AC voltage (Va) with a frequency of 0.1 to 1,000 Hz and a peak-to-peak voltage of 1 to 40 V onto a 1 to 50 V DC voltage (Vd).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Kansai Paint Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kentaro Kubota
  • Publication number: 20130248372
    Abstract: A method for anodizing and dyeing a metallic article including a decorated surface to be dyed, includes steps as follows: anodizing the metallic article to form an anodization layer on the decorated surface by an anodizing treatment, in which the anodization layer is porous with a number of holes; sealing the anodization layer of the metallic article anodized by a first sealing treatment in a first sealing solution, in which a contacting time of the anodization layer and the first sealing solution changes gradually along a predetermined direction, and thereby a depth of the holes of the anodization layer after sealing changes gradually along the predetermined direction; and coloring the metallic article sealed in a dyeing treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., FU TAI HUA INDUSTRY (SHENZHEN) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: LI-MING SHEN, KAI-BO CAO, ZHI-YONG FAN, WEI-CHAO LI, JIA-XIONG WANG
  • Patent number: 8529746
    Abstract: This method enables the use of nanowire or nano-textured forms of Polyaniline and other conductive polymers in energy storage components. The delicate nature of these very high surface area materials are preserved during the continuous electrochemical synthesis, drying, solvent application and physical assembly. The invention also relates to a negative electrode that is comprised of etched, lithiated aluminum that is safer and lighter weight than conventional carbon based lithium-ion negative electrodes. The invention provides for improved methods for making negative and positive electrodes and for energy storage devices containing them. The invention provides sufficient stability in organic solvent and electrolyte solutions, where the prior art processes commonly fail. The invention further provides stability during repetitive charge and discharge. The invention also provides for novel microstructure protecting support membranes to be used in an energy storage device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Nanoscale Components, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert W. Grant, Matthew Sweetland
  • Publication number: 20130189586
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a method for preparing a composite material comprising electrically conductive or semiconductive nano-objects of elongate shape and an electrically conductive polymer matrix, said method comprising a step consisting in electrochemically deposing said matrix on said nano-objects using a pulsed galvanostatic technique. The present invention also concerns the composite material thus obtained and uses thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2011
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Applicants: UNIVERSITE FRANCOIS RABELAIS, Commissariat A L'Energie Atomique Et Aux Engeries Alternatives, UNIVERSITE DE CERGY PONTOISE
    Inventors: Christian Sarrazin, Sebastien Lagoutte, Mathieu Pinault, Francois Tran Van, Claude Chevrot, Pierre Henry Aubert
  • Patent number: 8398830
    Abstract: Disclosed therein are a method and a system for anodizing metals. The anodizing system includes: an electrolytic bath storing electrolyte of a predetermined amount therein; an anode line mounted on an upper portion of the electrolytic bath, the anode line having insulation blocks for dividing the anode line into several sections; a cathode line disposed outside the anode line, the cathode line having insulation blocks mounted correspondingly to the insulation blocks of the anode line for dividing the cathode line into several sections; a chain connected to a driving sprocket and a driven sprocket inside the anode line, the chain having a plurality of transfer blocks; and hangers electrically connected to the anode line and adapted to fixe and support objects to be plated, which are deposited in the electrolyte.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Samwon Altech Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chi Ho Son
  • Publication number: 20130056360
    Abstract: A method for forming an oxide film by plasma electrolytic oxidation includes a first step of placing an anode, which is a substrate with a conductive nitride film, and a cathode into an electrolyte of which the temperature range is from 20° C. to 100° C., and a second step of applying a voltage ranging from 50 V to 1000 V to the anode and cathode to finally form an oxide film on a surface of the conductive nitride film of the anode. The oxide film can be formed more rapidly than the prior art and has excellent crystallinity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Inventors: Fu-Hsing LU, Jhu-Ling Zeng, Huan-Ping Teng
  • Publication number: 20120318674
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for forming an anode oxide film, in which on the assumption that a direct-current power source is used, a thick anode oxide film can be formed with good productivity within a short time without using special equipment. The method includes allowing a current A0 to pass through an aluminum base material, and includes a step of repeating a first electricity cut-off treatment multiple times, in which when a voltage reaches a voltage V1 during the formation of the film, the passage of electricity is once cut off, this electricity cut-off is continued for a period equal to or longer than an electricity cut-off time T1, and the passage of electricity is then resumed, wherein the voltage V1 and electricity cut-off time T1 satisfy the prescribed expressions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2011
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: Kabushiki Kaisha Kobe Seiko Sho (Kobe Steel, Ltd)
    Inventors: Koji Wada, Mamoru Hosokawa, Takayuki Tsubota, Jun Hisamoto
  • Publication number: 20120118748
    Abstract: In a method for treating an aluminum article (10), flux is applied to an outer surface of the aluminum article (10). The outer surface of the aluminum article (10) is brazed. An oxide layer (36) is formed on the outer surface of the aluminum article (10) by anodizing the aluminum article (10), where a portion of the oxide layer (36) is formed between the flux and the outer surface of the aluminum article (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Applicant: CARRIER CORPORATION
    Inventors: Mark R. Jaworowski, Michael F. Taras
  • Publication number: 20110313539
    Abstract: Metallic medical supplies include a metallic material as a base material, and a film having micro pores and/or micro unevenness on a surface of the base material, wherein the micro pores and/or micro unevennesses are impregnated with iodine or iodine compounds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2009
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Applicant: PROSTEC CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Tsuchiya, Matsufumi Takaya, Masatsugu Maejima
  • Publication number: 20110253544
    Abstract: A process for forming a porous metal oxide or metalloid oxide material, the process including: providing an anodic substrate including a metal or metalloid substrate; providing a cathodic substrate; contacting the anodic substrate and the cathodic substrate with an acid electrolyte to form an electrochemical cell; applying an electrical signal to the electrochemical cell; and forming shaped pores in the metal or metalloid substrate by: (c) time varying the applied voltage of the electrical signal to provide a voltage cycle having a minimum voltage period during which a minimum voltage is applied, a maximum voltage period during which a maximum voltage is applied, and a transition period between the minimum voltage period and the maximum voltage period, wherein the voltage is progressively increased from the minimum voltage to the maximum voltage during the transition period, or (d) time varying the current of the electrical signal to provide a current cycle having a minimum current period during which a mi
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA
    Inventor: Dusan Losic
  • Publication number: 20110220166
    Abstract: This invention pertains generally to compositions and a method for making films, nanostructures and nanowires in templates and on substrates, including but not limited to metal-semiconductor nanostructures and semiconductor nanostructures on semiconductor substrates, and a device having the same. Particularly described are methods for making cobalt antimonide nanostructures on gold and Co—Sb substrates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2011
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Inventors: Ruxandra Vidu, Dat Quach, Pieter Stroeve
  • Publication number: 20110186438
    Abstract: Disclosed therein are a method and a system for anodizing metals. The anodizing system includes: an electrolytic bath storing electrolyte of a predetermined amount therein; an anode line mounted on an upper portion of the electrolytic bath, the anode line having insulation blocks for dividing the anode line into several sections; a cathode line disposed outside the anode line, the cathode line having insulation blocks mounted correspondingly to the insulation blocks of the anode line for dividing the cathode line into several sections; a chain connected to a driving sprocket and a driven sprocket inside the anode line, the chain having a plurality of transfer blocks; and hangers electrically connected to the anode line and adapted to fixe and support objects to be plated, which are deposited in the electrolyte.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Applicant: SAMWON ALTECH CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Chi Ho Son
  • Publication number: 20110063601
    Abstract: A pellicle frame, including aluminum, aluminum oxide, and a transition metal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2010
    Publication date: March 17, 2011
    Inventors: Jung-jin KIM, Bum-hyun An, Chan-uk Jeon, Jang-dong You, Sung-wan Kim, Ik-jun Kim, Jae-hyuck Choi, Han-shin Lee
  • Patent number: 7776198
    Abstract: A method and apparatus of anodizing a component, preferably aluminum, is disclosed. The component is placed in an electrolyte solution. A number of pulses are applied to the solution and component. Each pulse is formed by a pattern including having three magnitudes. The third magnitude is less, preferably substantially less, than the first and second magnitudes, and all three magnitudes are of the same polarity. The pulse pattern may include alternations between the first and second magnitudes, and following the alternations, the third magnitude. Other patterns may be provided. The solution is in a reaction chamber, along with at least a portion of the component. The fluid enters the reaction chamber from a transport chamber through a plurality of inlets directed toward the component, preferably at an angle of between 60 and 70 degrees. The inlet is preferably the cathode, and the component is the anode, whereby current flows between the cathode and the anode in another embodiment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Pioneer Metal Finishing, LLC
    Inventor: Jean Rasmussen
  • Publication number: 20100185293
    Abstract: A layer is arranged on an implant for bone or tissue structure. The layer constitutes a boundary or barrier between the actual or unoxidized body of the implant and the structure for the purpose of increasing retention and has, in this context, a substantial thickness. The layer is designed with a channel network which gives the layer a substantial porosity. The channel network is designed with mouths which face towards the structure and whose respective cross-sectional diameters, at the surface of the layer facing towards the structure, are substantially less than the respective extents of the channels in and down into the layer as seen from the said surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Applicant: Nobel Biocare AB (publ.)
    Inventors: Jan Hall, Jukka Lausmaa
  • Patent number: 7727372
    Abstract: A method for anodizing valve metal structures to a target formation voltage is described. The valve metal structures are placed in an anodizing electrolyte and connected to a power supply that generates a source voltage to at least one current limiting device. If at least two current limiting devices are used, they are in series with the valve metal structures with the one current limiting device connected to at least one structure. The valve metal structures are then subjected to a current that decreases over time, a formation voltage that increases over time to a level below the voltage from the power supply and a power level that is self-adjusted to a level that decreases excessive heating in the structure. The invention also includes the components for the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Greatbatch Ltd.
    Inventors: Yanming Liu, Neal Nesselbeck, David Goad, Barry Muffoletto
  • Publication number: 20100087916
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a degradation-inhibiting first layer on the surface of an implant body, in particular an intraluminal endoprosthesis, whereby the body has at least one metallic material, which is at least largely biodegradable, comprising the following steps: preparing the body of the implant, and applying the first layer to at least a portion of the body surface, whereby the first layer contains magnesium stearate. An implant obtainable by such a method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2009
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Applicant: BIOTRONIK VI PATENT AG
    Inventors: Ullrich Bayer, Baerbel Becher, Bernd Block
  • Publication number: 20090250351
    Abstract: A method for coating, a composition suitable for coating and a coating generated with the method of coating on anodizable metallic surfaces, especially on magnesium rich and aluminum rich surfaces. is disclosed. The composition is an aqueous solution including alkali metal or ammonium cations, phosphorus containing anions and silicon containing anions as well as optionally a peroxide or a compound of Al, Ti, Zr or any mixture of them. Preferably, the anodizing is carried out with a micro-arc oxidation process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2009
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventor: Ilya Ostrovsky
  • Patent number: 7569132
    Abstract: An article of manufacture and a process for making the article by the anodization of aluminum and aluminum alloy workpieces to provide corrosion-, heat- and abrasion-resistant ceramic coatings comprising titanium and/or zirconium oxides, and the subsequent coating of the anodized workpiece with polytetrafluoroethylene (“PTFE”) or silicone containing coatings. The invention is especially useful for forming longer life PTFE coatings on aluminum substrates by pre-coating the substrate with an anodized layer of titanium and/or zirconium oxide that provides excellent corrosion-, heat- and abrasion-resistance in a hard yet flexible film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Henkel KGaA
    Inventor: Shawn E. Dolan
  • Patent number: 7563354
    Abstract: Application of a redox polymer of the poly-[Me(R-Salen)] type onto a conducting substrate is accomplished by the method of electrochemical polymerization. Said polymerization is accomplished by supplying a voltage between the substrate (that serves as an anode) and a counter electrode (that serves as a cathode), with both of them being submerged into the electrolyte containing an organic solvent and the compounds capable of dissolving in said solvent. The process is accompanied by the production of electrochemically inactive (at concentrations of no less than 0.01 mol/l) ions within the range of potentials from ?3.0 V to +1.5 V, and metal complex [Me(R-Salen)] dissolved at a concentration of no less than 5-10?5 mol/l, (where: Me is a transition metal having at least two different degrees of oxidation, R is an electron-donating substituent, Salen is a residue of bis-(salicylaldehyde)-ethylenediamine in Schiff's base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: GEN3 Partners, Inc.
    Inventors: Alexander Mikhailovich Timonov, Sergey Anatolijevich Logvinov, Dmitriy Ivanovich Pivunov, Svetlana Viktorovna Vasiljeva, Nik Shkolnik, Sam Kogan
  • Patent number: 7452454
    Abstract: Using aqueous electrolytes containing complex fluorides or oxyfluorides such as fluorozirconates and fluorotitanates, ferrous metal articles and non-metallic articles having a first coating containing aluminum may be rapidly anodized to form a second protective surface coating. White coatings may be formed on articles using pulsed direct current or alternating current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Henkel KGaA
    Inventor: Shawn E. Dolan
  • Publication number: 20080241755
    Abstract: In one embodiment, SWNTs are synthesized from an embedded catalyst in a modified porous anodic alumina (PAA) template. Pd is electrodeposited into the template to form nanowires that grow from an underlying conductive layer beneath the PAA and extend to the initiation sites of the SWNTs within each pore. Individual vertical channels of SWNTs are created, each with a vertical Pd nanowire back contact. Further Pd deposition results in annular Pd nanoparticles that form on portions of SWNTs extending onto the PAA surface. Two-terminal electrical characteristics produce linear I-V relationships, indicating ohmic contact in the devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventors: AARON D. FRANKLIN, MATTHEW R. MASCHMANN, TIMOTHY S. FISHER, TIMOTHY D. SANDS
  • Publication number: 20080220262
    Abstract: The invention concerns a coating produced by conversion treatment of an outer surface of a semiconductor metal support component (12) and comprising an inner layer (11) adhering to the support component (12) and accepting differential expansion constraints relative thereto, and an outer layer (19) having low solar absorptivity characteristic ? and the inner (11) and outer (10) layers having jointly a high hemispheric emissivity characteristic ? such that the ?/? ration is less than about 30%, and preferably less than 20%, the outer (10) and inner (11) layers consisting of different ceramics from one layer to the other and derived from crystalline forms different from the semiconductor metal or alloy of the metal support component (12). The invention is applicable to radiative outer surfaces of space vehicles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2006
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Applicant: Astrium SAS
    Inventor: Michel Plotto
  • Patent number: 7396446
    Abstract: This invention relates to a method of anodising magnesium material which includes anodising the magnesium while it is immersed in an aqueous electrolyte solution having a pH above 7, and in the presence of a phosphate, the electrolyte solution also containing a sequestering agent. The method may further include the provision of a plasma suppressing substance within the electrolyte solution. Furthermore, the electrolyte solution may also preferably include a tertiary amine such a TEA, and the current passed through the electrolyte solution may preferably be a straight DC current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: Keronite International Limited
    Inventor: Ian Grant Mawston
  • Patent number: 7060176
    Abstract: A method and apparatus of anodizing a component, preferably aluminum, is disclosed. The component is placed in an electrolyte solution. A number of pulses are applied to the solution and component. Each pulse is formed by a pattern including having three magnitudes. The third magnitude is less, preferably substantially less, than the first and second magnitudes, and all three magnitudes are of the same polarity. The pulse pattern may include alternations between the first and second magnitudes, and following the alternations, the third magnitude. Other patterns may be provided. The solution is in a reaction chamber, along with at least a portion of the component. The fluid enters the reaction chamber from a transport chamber through a plurality of inlets directed toward the component, preferably at an angle of between 60 and 70 degrees. The inlet is preferably the cathode, and the component is the anode, whereby current flows between the cathode and the anode in another embodiment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Pioneer Metal Finishing
    Inventor: Jean Rasmussen
  • Patent number: 6974532
    Abstract: A method for forming a highly adherent coating of a desired calcium phosphate phase on titanium-based substrates for use as orthopedic and dental implants. The calcium phosphate phase coating is electrochemically deposited onto the substrate from a metastable calcium phosphate electrolyte solution using a modulated electrical potential under pH, temperature and electrolyte composition and concentration conditions favorable for forming the desired calcium phosphate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: New York University
    Inventors: Racquel Z. LeGeros, John P. LeGeros, Shujie Lin
  • Patent number: 6808613
    Abstract: Process for obtaining a ceramic coating on the surface of a metal having semiconducting properties, such as aluminium, titanium, magnesium, hafnium, zirconium and their alloys, by a physico-chemical transformation reaction of the treated metal. This process consists in immersing the metal workpiece to be coated in an electrolytic bath composed of an aqueous solution of an alkali metal hydroxide, such as potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide, and of an oxyacid salt of an alkali metal, the metal workpiece forming one of the electrodes, and in applying a signal voltage of overall triangular waveform to the electrodes, that is to say a signal having at least a rising slope and a falling slope, with a form factor that can vary during the process, generating a current which is controlled in its intensity, its waveform and its ratio of positive current to negative current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Inventor: Jacques Beauvir
  • Patent number: 6802951
    Abstract: Methods for anodizing sintered valve metal anodes for use in wet electrolytic capacitors implemented in implantable medical devices (IMDs). The methods generally include immersing a pressed valve metal anode in an anodizing electrolyte and developing an anode-electrolyte system. Subsequently, subjecting the anode-electrolyte system to a potential that is ramped up to a target voltage in a pulsed fashion and delivering voltage potential pulses to the anode. The pulses are preferably decreased in pulse width as the potential increases. The pulse width of the applied pulses is preferably defined by means of a duty, such that the applied pulse duty cycle is substantially 100% initially and declines over the formation time as the formation voltage increases to the target potential to substantially 1.0% or less. The pulses are preferably applied for a hold time following achievement of the target formation potential, as the pulse current declines toward zero current flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventor: Joachim Hossick-Schott
  • Patent number: 6755955
    Abstract: A method for producing a catalytic converter includes depositing a layer of catalytically active metallic material by electrochemical deposition on a planar substrate by immersing the substrate in an electrolyte that contains the catalytically active metallic material. A high overvoltage at which a large number of seeds of the metallic material are formed on the substrate is set for a predetermined first time period between the substrate and the opposing electrode. The overvoltage is reduced for a predetermined second time period to a value at which the seeds which are deposited in the first time period grow on the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventors: Hubertus Biegert, Gabriele Stäb, Gabor Toth, Peter Urban
  • Patent number: 6736952
    Abstract: An electrochemical planarization apparatus for planarizing a metallized surface on a workpiece includes a polishing pad and a platen. The platen is formed of conductive material, is disposed proximate to the polishing pad and is configured to have a negative charge during at least a portion of a planarization process. At least one electrical conductor is positioned within the platen. The electrical conductor has a first end connected to a power source. A workpiece carrier is configured to carry a workpiece and press the workpiece against the polishing pad. The power source applies a positive charge to the workpiece via the electrical conductor so that an electric potential difference between the metallized surface of the workpiece and the platen is created to remove at least a portion of the metallized surface from the workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Assignee: SpeedFam-IPEC Corporation
    Inventors: Ismail Emesh, Saket Chadda, Nikolay N. Korovin, Brian L. Mueller
  • Publication number: 20040035705
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for electrochemically depositing a catalyst, especially a noble metal, from a precursor layer which is present on a membrane and in which the catalyst material is present in the form of salts that are soluble in the membrane material. According to the method, the membrane is surrounded by an atmosphere containing water vapour during the deposition process, this atmosphere ensuring the stability and ionic conductibility of the membrane. In contrast to methods used up until now, this prevents the soluble catalyst salt from being dissolved out the precursor layer. The method can be carried out in a simple device comprising a sealable vessel which can be advantageously tempered, a holder for receiving a membrane/precursor unit, a gas supply and electrical contacts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2003
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventors: Rolf Hempelmann, Marc Simon Loffler, Heinz Schmitz, Harald Natter, Jiri Divisek
  • Publication number: 20030213696
    Abstract: A low energy nuclear reaction power generator provided with an electrolytic cell containing an electrically-conductive heavy or light water electrolyte in which is immersed an electrode pair whose anode is formed of platinum and whose cathode is formed of palladium. Applied across these electrodes is a train of voltage pulse packets, each comprised of a cluster of pulses. The amplitude and duration of each pulse in the packet, the duration of the intervals between pulses, and the duration of the intervals between successive packets in the train are in a predetermined pattern in accordance with superlooping waves in which each wave is modulated by waves of different frequency. Each packet of voltage pulses gives rise to a surge of current in the electrolyte which flows between the electrodes and causes the heavy or light water to decompose, oxygen being released at the platinum electrode while deuterium ions migrate toward the palladium electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2003
    Publication date: November 20, 2003
    Applicant: Energetics Technologies, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Irving I. Dardik
  • Publication number: 20030209442
    Abstract: Disclosed is an electrochemical sensor for measuring carbon monoxide in a gas sample, the sensor comprising a working electrode including a working electrode catalyst, and a diffusion restriction means for restricting the diffusion of the gas sample to the working electrode; wherein the working electrode catalyst comprises oxidised platinum having a hydrogen cross-sensitivity of less than 10% and being present in an amount such that the activity capacity is at least 5.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Applicant: Alphsense Limited
    Inventor: John Christopher Harper
  • Publication number: 20030188972
    Abstract: There is disclosed a process and apparatus for carrying out plasma electrolytic oxidation of metals and alloys, forming ceramic coatings on surfaces thereof at a rate of 2-10 microns per minute. The process comprises the use of high-frequency current pulses of a certain form and having a given frequency range, combined with the generation of acoustic vibrations in a sonic frequency range in the electrolyte, the frequency ranges of the current pulses and the acoustic vibrations being overlapping. The process makes it possible to introduce ultra-disperse powders into the electrolyte, with the acoustic vibrations helping to form a stable hydrosol, and to create coatings with set properties. The process makes it possible to produce dense hard microcrystalline ceramic coatings of thickness up to 150 microns. The coatings are characterised by reduced specific thickness of an external porous layer (less than 14% of the total coating thickness) and low roughness of the oxidised surface, Ra 0.6-2.1 microns.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2002
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Inventors: Alexander Sergeevich Shatrov, Victor Iosifovich Samsonov
  • Publication number: 20030075453
    Abstract: Using pulsed current and relatively low average voltages, articles containing light metals such as magnesium may be rapidly anodized to form protective surface coatings. The anodizing solutions employed may contain phosphate, pennanganate, silicate, zirconate, vanadate, titanate and/or complex fluoride, optionally with other components present.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventor: Shawn E. Dolan
  • Patent number: 6551485
    Abstract: Microscopic mechanical elements suitable for manufacture of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) are directly prepared by forming a low-relief base of microscopic dimensions on a substrate surface by any conventional means, and electrodepositing a metal preferentially on the upper surface of the base to produce a vertically-extending 3-dimensional structure. In a first step, the patterned substrate and a counterelectrode are contacted with an electrolyte and an electric current is passed between the substrate and counterelectrode, with the substrate being predominantly cathodic with respect the counterelectrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Faraday Technology Marketing Group, LLC
    Inventor: E. Jennings Taylor
  • Publication number: 20020179453
    Abstract: An apparatus for producing orthohydrogen and/or parahydrogen. The apparatus includes a container holding water and at least one pair of closely-spaced electrodes arranged within the container and submerged in the water. A first power supply provides a particular first pulsed signal to the electrodes. A coil may also be arranged within the container and submerged in the water if the production of parahydrogen is also required. A second power supply provides a second pulsed signal to the coil through a switch to apply energy to the water. When the second power supply is disconnected from the coil by the switch and only the electrodes receive a pulsed signal, then orthohydrogen can be produced. When the second power supply is connected to the coil and both the electrodes and coil receive pulsed signals, then the first and second pulsed signals can be controlled to produce parahydrogen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventor: Stephen Barrie Chambers