Summary of the technology
This invention is based on the application of a hybrid organic/inorganic treatment onto an exposed surface – either as a stand-alone treatment or as a sealant. The treatment is applied using an electrochemical deposition technique, allowing for the development of conformal coatings, irrespective of design complexity. Layer thicknesses are low (10-100nm) but resistance in corrosive marine environments indicate corrosion rates comparable to technologies currently employed by the aerospace and automotive industries.
Corrosion rates are reduced by between 103 and 105 times, dependant on the nature of the porous coating. Tests on metallic coatings indicated a reduction in corrosion rates of approximately 103-104 while tests on ceramic coatings indicated a reduction in corrosion rates of approximately 105. By applying the hybrid treatment as a sealant treatment onto a porous wear resistant coating, concerns regarding the effect of mechanical damage are dramatically reduced. In addition, surface roughness levels are similar to electropolished finishes.
Description of the technology
DIT researchers have developed an advanced surface treatment for the protection of surfaces against corrosion and combined wear/corrosion (Tribocorrosion) degradation. The global thermal spray industry is worth about €5B per annum (based on 2003 estimates and an annual growth of 6.7%). Current sealant technologies are either ineffective or, based on industry responses, are expensive, with respect to bespoke sealant treatments. Therefore, sealant treatments, to-date, have had limited long-term success and associated industries have underestimated the importance of an effective sealant treatment. The technology outlined here is accessible both financially and technologically. It is therefore proposed that this developed technology will revolutionise industries using or applying porous wear resistant coatings.
Specifications
Main advantages of its use
- A low-cost technique, which is highly effective in protecting the underlying material from corrosion
- Conformal treatment thicknesses can be applied independent of component design
- Can be used to seal any porous wear resistant coating
- Enhances the effectiveness of wear resistant coatings and reduces the effective surface roughness
Applications
- A pre-treatment for corrosion protection, suitable for industries such as aerospace, automotive and pulp and paper
- A post-treatment (sealant) on porous wear resistant thermal spray or anodised coatings for advanced resistance to tribocorrosive degradation
- Applied to complex surfaces with tight conformal control on thickness, making it ideal for use on products such as extruders, mixers, valves and pump impellers
- As a sealant, the technology can be applied to any conducting surface, including metals, metal composites and conducting polymers, giving it a wide usability scope
Additional information (attached documents)
Additional information (attached documents)
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