Nano Metal Oxide - Conductive Polymer Anti-Corrosion Coating for Aluminum

Triton Systems in collaboration with Prof. Sze Yang of the University of Rhode Island (URI), responds to the Air Force need for a new and innovative non-chromium (environmentally friendly) anti-corrosion coating for Air Force aluminum alloy surfaces. Wewill develop a new anti-corrosion coating system based on non-chromium nano-metal oxides (NMOs) blended into an integrally doped conductive polymers (CP) matrix. The coating system will be applied to aluminum alloys of interest to the Air Force from anaqueous system using ISAM techniques. The release on command ability of both surface conversion and primer layers will be demonstrated, as well as superior performance against acid pitting corrosion. On Phase I we will show proof of principle of theproposed surface conversion and primer coatings; on Phase II we will address processing and compatibility issues with aircraft manufacturers and the Air Force, and on Phase III we will develop pre-prototype applications to aircraft surfaces withverification by field testing. A highly effective, non-chromated, release on command protective coating system that meets corrosion resistance requirements will greatly reduce the monetary and environmental costs associated with corrosion for the Air Force and other defense departmentagencies. Such a coating will have similar benefits in large commercial aircraft markets and in other applications where corrosion protection is desired.