A new class of ceramic coatings on plastic insulators

Refractory coated polymers are a superior alternative to uncoated polymers or pure ceramic insulators, as they provide the flexibility of polymers and the superior properties of ceramic as insulators. The proposed program aims to develop a technology which will address the problems associated with currently available refractory coated ceramics. Building upon our expertise with nanoparticle synthesis and processing, we propose to develop fully dense ceramic coatings with significantly high adherence to polymers compared to conventional coatings, which will make them suitable for use in high microwave tubes, particle beam accelerators, and other pulsed power applications. In Phase I, we will develop coating formulations, deposit coatings on polymer substrates, characterize the structure, and determine the peel strength and vacuum surface flashover. The properties will be benchmarked against currently available coatings. Additionally, commercialization and scale up plans will be developed during Phase I to be implemented in Phase II, so that the product can be manufactured and marketed in Phase III.