TRANSCOND

Development of film and coating products to replace conventional high volatile organic content and heavy metal filled formulations for the speciality electrically conductive coatings market

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 Obiettivo del progetto (Objective)

'The project will develop a series of film and coating products, and production technology for their manufacture, to replace conventional high volatile organic content (VOC) and heavy metal filled formulations for the speciality electrically conductive coatings market. The products developed will be multifunctional polymer coatings featuring the following advancements over the state of the art:

• Capable of conforming to ATEX Directive 94/9/EC for lighting in explosive environments • Electrical resistivity in the range 101 to 108 Ohm.cm • Transparency, in the visible spectrum, in the range 80 to 90% • 80 to 100% improved scratch resistance versus current coatings • Modulus and hardness of 100% versus current coatings • Permeability to water and air reduced to 50% versus current coatings • Or equivalent performance at 30% thinner coating versus current coatings • 30% cost reductions versus metallic shielding paints • 90% reduction in VOC versus current formulations

Currently available electrically conductive coatings products comprising colloidal dispersions of silver, nickel, and copper in organic solvents will be replaced with water based dispersions of modified carbon and hybrid metal / carbon particles. Moreover, coatings for new applications in electronics where current technology cannot meet cost / performance demands will be formulated. Particle and polymer modifications will be developed that optimise the coatings leading to new formulations for the product portfolios of the partner SMEs permitting them conform to EU Directive 1999/13/EC on the limitation of emissions of volatile organic compounds and Directive 94/9/EC for lighting in explosive environments.'

Introduzione (Teaser)

Coatings that conduct electricity historically fall short on ratings of greenness. Innovative eco-friendly alternatives that are also sprayable, transparent and higher performing are ready to blaze a trail to existing and new markets.

Descrizione progetto (Article)

Electrically conductive coatings are employed in a plethora of products from mobile phones and computers to medical, military and aerospace systems. Conventional coatings are very high in heavy metals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), both of which are serious health hazards. Development of novel multifunctional polymer coatings with reduced environmental impact was an important objective of the EU-funded project http://www.transcond.org (TRANSCOND) .

Researchers went much further, though, with sprayable, transparent and permanently conductive coatings employing nano-structured carbon and boasting significantly enhanced technical properties. In just two short years, the partners have developed a range of commercially available coatings that can be obtained through links on the project website. In addition, three of the five products are compatible with the EU's directive on technical requirements for equipment used in potentially explosive environments (ATEX Directive 94/9/EC).

The coatings are largely water-based for a major relief from VOCs. Depending on the application, they are compatible with glass, plastic and/or metal. One transparent coating is designed for displays, protective screens, oven doors and large areas such as flooring.

In addition to traditional scientific dissemination routes, three project videos are available on the project website and on YouTube. A LinkedIn group has also been established.

TRANSCOND's highly innovative electrically conductive coatings will help the small and medium-sized enterprises that have been integral in their development expand their markets considerably. The novel functionalities and enhanced properties will help them create new application potential as well, achieving an important increase in competitive position.