Structure and formation of trivalent chromium conversion coatings containing cobalt on zinc plated steel

The present study intends to elucidate the effect of treatment solution composition on the formation and structure of Trivalent Chromium-based Conversion (TCC) coatings containing cobalt on zinc substrates. Model solutions with two different complexing agents, viz. fluoride and oxalate, with and without cobalt were applied to zinc plated steel. The scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy images revealed a morphology with microstructural defects that can be improved to a more uniform and adherent structure by adding cobalt to the passivating bath. The elemental composition of the layer was investigated by auger electron spectroscopy (AES). Furthermore, the amounts of Cr and Co in the coatings were also measured with the aid of inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). In good agreement with AES, cobalt was also detected in the layers via ICP-OES measurement. The results of accelerated corrosion tests suggested that the formation of a densely packed layer is crucial for a good corrosion resistance of the coating

Bonding mechanisms in laser-assisted joining of metal-polymer composites

Metal-Plastic hybrid components and assemblies are gaining importance due to novel lightweight constructions and a growing integration of functions by using the right material at the right place. Thermal joining enables a joining technology for thermoplastic materials and engineering metals without using adhesive or joining elements. The paper provides novel investigations on the interaction between form fit and physicochemical interactions due to the combined use of specifically used oxide layers, interaction barriers and defined surface structuring by laser processing. Thereby, the design of experiments allows the investigation of the form fit as dominant interaction mode

Ferrimagnetic large single domain iron oxide nanoparticles for hyperthermia applications

This paper describes the preparation and obtained magnetic properties of large single domain iron oxide nanoparticles. Such ferrimagnetic particles are particularly interesting for diagnostic and therapeutic applications in medicine or (bio)technology. The particles were prepared by a modified oxidation method of non-magnetic precursors following the green rust synthesis and characterized regarding their structural and magnetic properties. For increasing preparation temperatures (5 to 85 °C), an increasing particle size in the range of 30 to 60 nm is observed. Magnetic measurements confirm a single domain ferrimagnetic behavior with a mean saturation magnetization of ca. 90 Am2/kg and a size-dependent coercivity in the range of 6 to 15 kA/m. The samples show a specific absorption rate (SAR) of up to 600 W/g, which is promising for magnetic hyperthermia application. For particle preparation temperatures above 45 °C, a non-magnetic impurity phase occurs besides the magnetic iron oxides that results in a reduced net saturation magnetization