Temperature-Compensated Pressure-Sensitive Paint Containing a Bichromophoric Luminophore

Temperature-sensitive paints (TSP) and pressure-sensitive paints (PSP) are a reliable way to map surface response to change in pressure and temperature. Luminescent probes are incorporated into a surface treatment and the change in luminescent intensity or the change in the lifetime of the luminescence is monitored with change in temperature and pressure. The TSP and PSP are used in the aeronautics and astronautics industry to understand temperature and pressure gradients to maximize material integrity and design geometry of vehicles. The purpose of this Phase I STTR program is to design a new pressure- and temperature-sensitive paint for use with the developing lifetime-based fluorescence response measurements. The luminophores selected for this paint can be photoexcited at a single wavelength and emit a single fluorescence band for ease of excitation and collection of data. In addition, the two luminophores will be combined into a single bichromophoric complex to ensure equal distribution of the luminophores in the binder matrix. NanoSonic, Inc will partner with the Chemistry Department at the University of Dayton to synthesize the proposed complex and to measure its response to temperature and pressure. The University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI) will aide in paint dispersion and spray application as well as measure gloss, film adhesion and monitor photo-degradation of the paint in Xenon-arc artificial weathering chambers.