SBIR/STTR PHASE I: Nanoparticle Production for High Performance Coating

This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will develop a new approach to economical, ultra high performance coating composites. This approach is based on the use of alumoxane nanoparticles. These functional inorganic-organic nanoparticles improve physical properties such as toughness, impermeability, chemical resistance and flexibility. This novel approach to production will demonstrate a highly cost effective manufacturing methodology that can be easily carried out in the coating plant, wherein the nanoparticle production becomes an integral part of the coating manufacturing process. The project will seek an understanding of the mechanisms that influence the top down fragmenting phenomenon. Nanoparticles, in slurry form, will be functionalized and then incorporated into the high performance coating. The commercial applications of this project will have a broad and significant impact in the nation's 1.7 billion dollar industrial coatings market. This market includes interior linings, chemical resistant coatings and rail car linings.