D. G. Bhat, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR; J. J. Stiglich, Advanced Metals Associates, Breckenridge, CO

Summary: The paper will review developments during the 1970s in synthesis of nanocrystalline, hard, wear-resistant coatings, which occurred long before "nanotechnology" became a buzz word. Specific examples of ultrahard nanostructured ceramic carbide coatings will be described. More recent developments in new approaches for nanostructured coatings will also be reviewed briefly.