Technology and Materials

Nanoparticle dispersions and nanocomposite coatings/films Unique attributes:

  • High transparency

  • Low haze

  • Tunable optical properties

  • Engineerable flexibility and durability

  • UV protection

  • Stable, non­agglomerating nanocomposite solutions

  • In­line processing under standard atmospheric conditions

Nanoparticle library: TiO2, ZnO, SiO2 and more By blending the best of flexible polymers and crystalline nanoparticles, unique material properties can be produced that allow a film to excel in applications that were impossible or cost prohibitive with vacuum systems. The index of refraction, hardness, flexibility, and thermal expansion characteristics of the composite can be pushed into regions that are unheard of with more conventional materials. Index of refraction, in particular, is infinitely adjustable between the limits of the system. This allows a stack or single layer to provide the desired optical performance, while matching the substrate more effectively, whether it is rigid or highly flexible. With solvent borne materials and fast, radiation curing processes, our methods offer cost effective alternatives that scale up in a predictable fashion using simple application methods.

  • ink jet

  • print

  • roll coat

  • spin

  • spray

Nanoparticle composites are an attractive alternative to coatings applied by vacuum systems. Though they employ large, expensive, and complex equipment, vacuum systems often produce films that are brittle and poorly matched to plastic substrates. Unpredictable scale up and extreme expense are often encountered when moving from research to production scales as well.