Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISCParticle based coatings
In its "Nanoparticle Kitchen", the Fraunhofer ISC develops tailor-made particles for a wide variety of applications. The particles are used, for example, in the manufacture of functional coatings. For this purpose, the size of the particles is used to generate a micro/nanostructuring with adjustable porosity on the substrate to be coated. In addition, the functionality of the particles can be enhanced by incorporating them into paints, plastics or other matrices.
Challenge
The market for coating systems has grown strongly in recent years. In particular, the demand for "anti-soiling" or easy-to-clean surfaces or anti-reflective coatings is constantly increasing due to the ever-increasing requirements placed on functional components and products such as photovoltaic modules. In arid areas, dirt-repellent surfaces are needed to ensure the efficiency of PV modules in the long term. At the same time, anti-reflective coatings can help to increase light transmission and thus efficiency.
Systems
One of the focal points at the Fraunhofer ISC is the development of ultra-thin layers with anti-soiling and/or anti-reflective functions, for example for the glass covering of PV modules. The dust-repellent properties are due to the micro- and nanostructuring of the SiO2-based coating, which can be specifically adjusted.
TiO2-based coatings, e.g. on glass or metal substrates, show a photocatalytic effect when exposed to UVA light. With the help of photocatalysis, organic contaminants can be oxidised (partially degraded) and the TiO2 surface simultaneously becomes superhydrophilic, i.e. it spreads water droplets and thus ensures complete wetting of the surface. The combination of these two effects results in a cleaning supporting effect of the TiO2 layer. The nanostructuring of the layer can be adjusted via the size of the TiO2 nanoparticles and can thus be tailored specifically for the degradation of organic substances in solid form (contamination) or in liquid (waste water/water) and gaseous medium (air).
Offer
Development of particle-based coatings with external effects tailor-made for your application. Production of coatings using different processes with your or our coating solutions on your or commercially available substrates. Characterization of coatings in cooperation with our analytical service center.
