Development of an Environmentally Friendly in-situ Pack-Cyaniding Technique

Abstract

A safe and environmentally friendly cyaniding method has been developed to mitigate the toxic impacts of cyanide salts on the environment during conventional cyaniding. The method entails in-situ diffusion of nascent cyanide from mature cassava leaves into the surface of mild steel components via pack-cyaniding. Both high-temperature in-situ diffusion into austenite and low-temperature in-situ diffusion into ferrite were explored. Results from light and scanning electron microscopic studies showed that surface hardness of the steel components was substantially increased. The waste product was a harmless biodegradable organic compound that posed no disposal threats. This study is important for increasing the wear resistance of ferrous parts for a longer service life in application without polluting the environment.