Disclosed are novel metallic nanoparticles coated with a thin protective carbon shell, and three-dimensional nano-metallic sponges; methods of preparation of the nanoparticles; and uses for these novel materials, including wood preservation, strengthening of polymer and fiber/polymer building materials, and catalysis.

A system for treating wire includes an elongated vessel that contains a molten fluid. A pump is disposed in the molten fluid in the vessel. The pump includes an elongated discharge conduit extending for at least a portion of the length of the vessel. Conveyance structure enables the wire to be conveyed through the molten fluid. Operation of the pump enables a temperature of the molten fluid in the vessel to be changed. The wire is heat treated as a result of passing through the molten fluid.

A system for treating wire includes an elongated vessel that contains a molten fluid. A pump is disposed in the molten fluid in the vessel. The pump includes an elongated discharge conduit extending for at least a portion of the length of the vessel. Conveyance structure enables the wire to be conveyed through the molten fluid. Operation of the pump enables a temperature of the molten fluid in the vessel to be changed. The wire is heat treated as a result of passing through the molten fluid.

A system for treating wire includes an elongated vessel that contains a molten fluid. A pump is disposed in the molten fluid in the vessel. The pump includes an elongated discharge conduit extending for at least a portion of the length of the vessel. Conveyance structure enables the wire to be conveyed through the molten fluid. Operation of the pump enables a temperature of the molten fluid in the vessel to be changed. The wire is heat treated as a result of passing through the molten fluid.

A system for treating wire includes an elongated vessel that contains a molten fluid. A pump is disposed in the molten fluid in the vessel. The pump includes an elongated discharge conduit extending for at least a portion of the length of the vessel. Conveyance structure enables the wire to be conveyed through the molten fluid. Operation of the pump enables a temperature of the molten fluid in the vessel to be changed. The wire is heat treated as a result of passing through the molten fluid.

We disclose novel metallic nanoparticles coated with a thin protective carbon shell, and three-dimensional nano-metallic sponges; methods of preparation of the nanoparticles; and uses for these novel materials, including wood preservation, strengthening of polymer and fiber/polymer building materials, and catalysis.

We disclose novel metallic nanoparticles coated with a thin protective carbon shell, and three-dimensional nano-metallic sponges; methods of preparation of the nanoparticles; and uses for these novel materials, including wood preservation, strengthening of polymer and fiber/polymer building materials, and catalysis.