This article describes the synthesis, manufacturing, and properties of both the neat soy-based resins and the glass, flax, and hemp composites. A tabulation of the fatty-acid distribution in various plant oils is provided. The article discusses synthetic pathways for triglyceride-based monomers and provides a discussion on acrylated epoxidized soybean oils (AESO), maleinized soyoil monoglyceride (SOMG/MA), and maleinized hydroxylated oil (HO/MA). The polymer properties of the AESO, SOMG/MA, and HO/MA are also discussed. The article explains the ballistic impact resistance of soy resin composites and concludes with a discussion on biodegradable composites.

Painting is a generic term for the application of a thin organic coating to the surface of a material for decorative, protective, or functional purposes. This article provides a detailed account of the types and selection factors of paints and the various application methods, including conventional air atomized, airless, and electrostatic spray; roller coating; dip coating; flow coating; curtain coating; tumble coating; electrocoating; and powder coating. Surface preparation methods and prepaint treatments for coating systems are also discussed. The article includes information on quality control procedures, causes of paint film defects, cost calculation, and safety and environmental precautions. The composition and characteristics of organic coatings, coating system selection factors, the types of paints for structural steel, and the applications of paint on structural steel are also reviewed.

Electroless nickel plating is used to deposit nickel without the use of an electric current. This article provides an overview of the solution composition and characteristics of the electroless nickel bath. It focuses on the metallurgical, mechanical and physical properties of electroless nickel-phosphorus coatings and electroless nickel-boron coatings. The effect of electroless nickel coatings on the fatigue strength of steel is also described. The article includes information on the recommended pretreatment procedures for different ferrous alloys, aluminum alloys, and copper alloys. It presents a detailed account of the equipment and various processes—including bulk and barrel plating—involved in electroless nickel plating, and discusses hydrogen relief methods. The article includes a comprehensive table on nickel plating applications, and concludes with information on electroless nickel coatings on composites and plastics.