ION BEAMS replace chrome plating

摘要

Metal ion implantation is the process of altering surface properties by bombarding with high-energy metal ions. Because the process does not produce a coating, dimensions and bulk properties of the part remain unchanged, and implanted surfaces have no problems with adhesion, residual stress, or poor microstructure. Implanted surfaces can provide wear and/or corrosion resistance comparable with, or superior to, chrome plating. Furthermore, it is a relatively low-temperature process, which enables treatment of materials such as plastics, aluminum, and low-alloy steel. Based on technology developed in the United States nuclear fusion program, the method has been adapted by ISM Technologies. The company has introduced equipment that reduces the cost from the 100,000 dollars/m~2 range to below 100 dollars/m~2, allowing it to compete with chrome plating in many applications. In addition, metal ion implantation can be used in many areas where chrome plating is not practical.