Discrete nanosized metallic coatings produced by EB-PVD

Abstract

This paper presents new technology variants of electron beam vapour phase deposition (EB-PVD) regarding discrete nanosized metal coatings on the surface of powders and granules of organic and inorganic substances. Examples of Ag, Cu and Fe produced coatings on the surfaces of microsized powders of inorganic (NaCl, Al₂O₃) and organic (polyvinylpyrrolidone, metronidazole, streptomycin, triazolin) substances, and millimetre organic granules (polyethylene, rice and wheat grains) are presented. Main attention is given to discrete silver coatings. Possibilities of transformation of powder systems with discrete coatings into liquid phase systems, for instance, colloids, following a simple technological schematic are shown, that is, deposition of metal nanoparticles on soluble powders of surfactants and subsequent dissolution of composites in water or other solvents. Directions of further research and development are proposed.

Keywords:

• Electron beam evaporation and deposition
• EB-PVD
• Nanostructured coatings
• Inorganic and organic powders
• Granules
• Colloids