Quasi-instantaneous materials processing technology via high-intensity electrical nano pulsing

Abstract

Despite many efforts, the outcomes obtained with field-assisted processing of materials still rely on long-term coupling with other electroless processes. This conceals the efficacy and the intrinsic contributions of electric current. A new device utilizing electrical nano pulsing (ENP) has been designed and constructed to bring quasi-instantaneous modifications to the micro- and nano-structure in materials. Featuring ultra-high intensity (~ 1011 A/m2) and ultra-short duration (< 1 μs), the ENP technology activates non-equilibrium structural evolutions at nanometer spatial scale and nanosecond temporal scale. Several examples are provided to demonstrate its utility far outpacing any conventional materials processing technology. The ENP technology gives a practical tool for exploring the intrinsic mechanism of electric-field effects and a pathway towards the rapid industrial manufacturing of materials with unique properties.