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Application technology

In our laboratories, we apply inks and dispersions containing nanoparticles of different sizes to a variety of flat and flexible surfaces. Suitable substrates range from polymers and composites right up to glass. Since the properties of these surfaces vary significantly, we offer to pretreat them with plasma or a selection of primers. The desired properties can be achieved through specially-adapted surface treatments. The coating material used and functionalities achieved depend on the substrate in question.

The quality of the coating with regard to thickness and homogeneity is assessed using appropriate methods such as optical or laser microscopy. We also perform analyses and quality inspections on finished coated parts supplied by customers.

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Solution approaches

Your advantages

Model factory: roll-to-roll coating system

In most cases, new material
combinations that are only available in very small quantities cannot be tested directly on production lines.

However, their suitability for use must be evaluated beforehand. Processes and process conditions as close as possible to those in production are required in order to adapt or redefine the processing parameters of new materials.

On the roll-to-roll coating system, batches ranging from only a few centimeters to several 100 meters can be applied in a continuous process. By combining data analysis and characterization of the initial material right through to the final application, short development cycles can be achieved.

Making new materials usable: we process and evaluate new formulas using a setup on the scale of a pilot plant:

- The solutions developed are scalable

- Coating tests are digitized thanks to process data analysis, monitoring and networking with upstream and downstream equipment

- Linked to Industrie 4.0 services and benefits

- Downtime costs at production plants are avoided

Dispersing technology

We successfully develop and process tailor-made dispersions for our customers. This is accomplished in several steps: first of all, various crushing and grinding processes are employed in order to achieve the desired particle sizes. The processes differ in terms of grinding force and conditions (wet/dry). A further processing step is the dispersion itself. We use a range of processing methods to disperse and stabilize the nanoparticles, e.g. ultrasound or various stabilizers. All of the applied methods can be easily scaled and reproduced. To analyze dispersions for our customers, we investigate parameters such as transparency, particle size, rheology and adhesion to a specific substrate, as well as performing optical characterization and determining absorption indices.

As part of our research and development activities, the Functional Materials department offers you a wide range of platforms, infrastructures and expertise in particle processing in order to provide solutions that are optimally tailored to your requirements. Customized dispersions enhance the specific mechanical, optical and electrical properties of your products, thus improving their performance and functionality and also cutting your production costs.

We will be happy to answer any further questions you may have and to find the solutions you need.