ITO Repair on Transparencies

ABSTRACT:There is a critical need for rapid flight line repair of scratches in Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) -coated transparencies.While ITO meets current requirements for conductivity and transparency, it is easily damaged and has deposition techniques that are incompatible with depot conditions.Current on-site repair of minor defects involve the application of a flexible conductive patch material with a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA), but these patches tend to peel off with continued exposure to the high speed winds, abrasives/impacts, moisture, and temperatures associated with flight conditions. Eclipse Energy Systems, Inc. (Eclipse) proposes tailoring its proprietary transparent electrical conductor (TEC) for use in the repair of damaged aircraft canopy coatings via the fabrication of a conductive patch. Eclipse TEC is an optically tailorable thin film coating system that possesses metal-like conductivity with glass-like transparency in the visible region.An edge sealing process with optically clear adhesive can protect the seams of the patch from curling and peeling off during the rigors of flight, providing a more durable repair, reducing maintenance costs and increasing operational readiness.BENEFIT:IDTechEx, a market analysis firm, has indicated that the market for transparent conducting film and glass will reach $6.3 B by 2024. Replacements for ITO are expected to reach $690 M by 2016. This market is expected to top $1.8 B by 2024. Our initial primary customers would be the US Military for use on aircraft canopies.However, these conductive coatings find use in a variety of lighting, display, industrial, medical, and aerospace applications.