Anti-corrosive and anti-reflective metallic surface through laser surface patterning for aircraft applications

Alchlight has successfully completed a DAF phase I by demonstrating a femtosecond pulsed laser surface patterning technology that produces superhydrophobic surfaces on DAF-relevant metals. The altered materials also provide superior anti-corrosion and superblack capabilities. In this Phase II, AlchLight proposes to elevate its technology to the next level by implementing two key enablers: 1) introducing AI/ML approach for optimal processing parameters, which can speed up the parameter search speed from weeks to hours; 2) implementing a full automation for 3D contoured surface patterning to scan, dynamically monitor the sample surface contours, and provide workstation real-time feedback during laser processing. With these significant upgrades, AlchLight will incorporate its technology to DAF materials, and then to user-provided tools for initial evaluations. This will help the end-user assess feasibility and consider scaling up to larger, critical components, such as aircraft noses and airframes, within their branch in Phase III.AlchLight has a robust customer base and an outstanding technology transition track record. AlchLight is currently a DoD Phase III contractor with a 100% success rate beyond SBIR Phase II. Particularly, AlchLight is a technological leader in developing non-coating-based superhydrophobic anti-corrosive and superblack metals. Currently, AlchLight is helping a number of key industrial customers in creating anti-fog and anti-icing polymer covers for protecting the sensors and detectors of self-driven vehicles. Our unparalleled technological know-how and extensive industrial involvement will guarantee AlchLight’s success in this DAF project.