Novel Hybrid Transparent Conductor for Abrasion-Resistant Windscreen Coatings

"Many modern aircraft windscreens are made of polycarbonate, which is impact resistant, but not very abrasion resistant. Furthermore, windscreens have several other, functional coating layer added to them. Since windscreens encounter harsh environments and need to be cleaned frequently, the surface is prone to damage. To prolong the life of expensive windscreens, abrasion- and chemical-resistant coatings are desired. TPL proposes an innovative coating solution that will integrate abrasion resistance into the transparent conductor layer. The hybrid molecule, tailored for this application, will be synthesized and incorporated into a sol-gel precursor solution. Coatings will be deposited from the precursor solution to provide a homogeneous transparent conductor with increased chemical and abrasion resistance. Phase I will show the feasibility of TPL's system for increasing the abrasion resistance of the transparent conductor layer on polycarbonate. Conductivity will be measured using a four point probe. Mechanical properties will be measured by wear tests and scratch resistance. Chemical resistance will be demonstrated using common cleaners, oil and fuel. Optical properties will be measured by spectrophotometry. The PI and the Specialty Materials Department at TPL have extensive experience and resources in optical coating technology, and are well-qualified to perform the proposed work. The proposed innovation would be used to