Porous Sol-Gel Derived Ceramic Release Agent

Breathable release coatings that can withstand processing conditions up to 750F are needed for use on ceramic tooling. In situ removal of volatiles in solvent-based composite processing is a critical issue that will enable production of high quality parts at lower cost per part. Current release coatings meet neither the temperature nor the solvent transport requirements of solvent-based composite processing.TPL proposes to develop innovative sol-gel routes to produce a porous ceramic coating as a release agent which can function at temperatures of 750F. The addition of various organic functional groups can be used to tailor the release properties of sol-gel derived coatings. The coating will be compatible with solvents and materials used in composites processing, adhere strongly to the tool surface, and permit passage of volatiles.TPL will formulate coating solutions and apply them to catable ceramic tooling. The coating will be evaluated for release, thermal shock, thermal cycling, adhesion and porosity characteristics.TPL has extensive experience and resources in sol-gel technology, as well as composite processing and so is well qualified to execute the proposed research. The PI is experienced in sol-gel processing and characterization.