Flash-free welding

Flash-welded films can be readily removed from their substrates by water. They can also be peeled off by touching a corner to cellophane tape, leading to a free-standing nanofiber film (Figure 7.43, upper left). 

FIGURE 7.43 SEM images showing the cross section of an asymmetric free-standing nanofiber film produced by flash welding. The inset picture shows that the welded films become insoluble in N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF). The pale blue color is due to partial dissolution of uncross-linked polyaniline. (Adapted from Huang, J.X. and Kaner, R.B., Nat Mater., 3, 783-786, 2004.)... 

Wool, leather, or cotton clothing treated to reduce flammability are preferred for welding. Clothing should be thick enough to prevent flash-through burns, be clean, and be free of oil or grease. Clothes should have sleeves and collars buttoned and should have no front pockets that could catch sparks. Welders should wear pants without cufis. Pants legs should cover the tops of shoes or boots. 

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