| ||
|
Nanopowders, Thin Films, and Devices | |
| ||
      
|
 |
 Functional surfaces are surfaces of substrates that are modified or enhanced to provide a new or improved function to the substrate or composite. The method of change may be due to an activation mechanism, a coating, a chemical alteration, a morphological structure, or any other adjustment that gives function at the surface apart from the substrate's inherent properties. Functional surfaces can make an ordinary product remarkable, often without extensive modifications or redesign. 
At nGimat, our focus is on coatings to create functional surfaces via nanomaterials. Such coatings generally serve in a value-add situation, imparting useful characteristics to a substrate that is already performing its intended job. Examples of functional surfaces include hydrophobic or hydrophilic surfaces (for window glass, mirrors, plastics and many other substrates), anti-reflective surfaces (for applications like clear plastic wrapping materials), anti-microbial surfaces (used in, for example, food or medical packaging purposes), interfaces (to improve adhesion or interaction with adjacent materials), and barriers (for protecting a substrate or making it more resistant to gas permeation). Anti-microbial Coatings nGimat is pursuing anti-microbial coatings through its functional surfaces project. Its NanoSpray Combustion Processing technology is suited to forming silver nanostructured surfaces, where silver is a well-known anti-microbial agent. Anti-reflective Coatings nGimat is developing low-cost, functional nanostructured coatings that provide anti-reflective surfaces to various substrates. These coatings can have application in areas like plastic packaging for food or other items by helping to reduce light glare and allowing better viewing of the product inside. Barrier Coatings The development of oxidation, moisture and corrosion protective coatings is important for helping to extend the range of use of advanced electronics and alloys. Technologies, including coatings, that provide chemical and water diffusion and oxidation protection, are in demand. Protective coatings are used to improve corrosion resistance, thermal stability and/or the service life of such items as portable electronics and automotive or aerospace components. Customers are demanding coating solutions that are inexpensive and environmentally benign. nGimat's CCVD process is uniquely positioned to offer significant cost savings and benefits for protective coatings by its open atmosphere operation that can operate on production lines. Over 90% reduction in oxidation, moisture, and corrosion protection has been demonstrated with 10-90 nm thick layers, but the layers remain flexible. nGimat's barrier coatings reduce carbon dioxide diffusion through PET beverage bottles, thus extending shelf life and enabling smaller plastic beverage containers. In addition, nGimat's coatings can reduce oxygen penetration through plastic food packaging. While barrier coatings have been available for some time, they require a significant investment in equipment. nGimat's process allows barrier coatings to be applied continuously with relatively inexpensive equipment. nGimat Home |
 |