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Ancient Technique Used in the Terracotta Army Inspires New Chinese Solution to Protect Modern Cannons Against Wear and Structural Failures
Chinese researchers made a technological leap by drawing inspiration from a protection technique used over two thousand years ago. The method was originally applied to bronze weapons buried with the Terracotta Army of the Qin dynasty.
When discovered in 1974, the weapons were intact, sharp, and shining, even after centuries underground.
The most important aspect is that scientists managed to identify the secret behind their preservation: an extremely thin layer of chromium salt, between 10 and 15 millimeters. This film withstood the test of time, preventing the parts from rusting.
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Problems Faced by Modern Weapons
Current artillery weapons of the army, such as howitzers and cannons, face extreme conditions. They operate under temperatures exceeding 3,000 °C and pressures above 400 MPa.
Moreover, they suffer from the repeated impact of firing, which causes corrosion and microcracks over time.
These damages compromise accuracy and increase the risk of serious failures. To attempt to avoid this wear, the current standard uses a single layer of galvanized chromium on the barrels.
However, this solution has limitations. The layer may not adhere well to steel and tends to form cracks, which promote corrosion and flaking of the coating.
New Technique with Overlapping Layers
To solve the problem, a team from the Northwest Institute of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering in Xianyang developed a new type of coating. It consists of two layers, each with a specific function.
The first, applied directly to the barrel, is a layer of soft chromium. It is deposited at low temperatures and with low electric current. This combination reduces internal stress and closes pores on the steel surface.
The second layer is made with harder chromium. It is applied at higher temperatures and currents. Its function is to resist wear and protect the inner layer.
According to the researchers, the junction between the two creates a barrier that prevents the progression of cracks, similar to what happens in laminated glass.
Positive Results in Real Tests
Tests showed that the new technology reduced barrel wear by up to 23% at room temperature.
When subjected to 600 °C, conventional barrels wore almost twice as much. In contrast, those with double coating had only a 33% increase in wear.
During actual firings, traditional barrels showed deep cracks, chips, and damage to the lands.
In contrast, those with the double layer maintained a smooth surface, with only small cracks and preserved lands. This means that the lifespan of these weapons could double.
More Accuracy and Less Maintenance in Modern Weapons
The innovation promises to reduce failure risks and lower maintenance costs. Furthermore, it enhances the reliability and accuracy of the weapons.
The new coating is also compatible with more modern munitions, such as hypersonic and smart projectiles.
The team’s next step will be to apply this technique to smaller caliber weapons, which pose a greater challenge. The scientists are also looking to create a complete industrial process, from steel preparation to final sealing.
The inspiration from an ancient technique has resulted in an advancement that could transform modern artillery. With more durable weapons, firepower can be sustained for longer on the battlefield.
With information from Interesting Engineering.
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