WHAT IS A SOL-GEL ?
The Sol-gel or « solution-gelification » process is based on the evolution from a sol to a gel state and the progressive formation of a 3D oxide coating network by hydrolysis and condensation reactions. The sol contains mainly alkoxide precursors, solvents, additives, and catalysers. Depending on the nature of these components it is possible to manage the properties of a substrate with a transparent and thin layer. Anti-dirt, anti-corrosion, barrier, scratch resistance constitutes various properties than sol-gel can provide to the metallic, polymeric or natural substrate.
THE CONCEPT
By tailoring the sol-gel formulation (the nature, ratio of precursors, additives), the physicochemical properties and functionality can be adapted to assure hydrophobic, omniophobic and repellent surface.
Inox tube coated
Sol-Gel Spray coating
Tube spray-coated with sol-gel
THE ADVANTAGES
Low thickness of the coating inducing small modification of the surface aspect and topography
Versality of the application process making possible application on site or in industrial chains of 3D complex shapes.
Environmentally-friendly (low VOC, low temperature of curing) and durable surface treatment.
Good mechanical resistance, barrier, flexibility (compatible with shaping)
IN THE CHOPIN PROJECT
In CHOPIN, sol-gel formulations are managed in terms of precursors (fluorinated or long alkyl chains based components) to obtain slippery, hydrophobic and omniophobic properties. Moroeover, the adaptation of the coating chemistry is also focusing to resist to the extreme conditions of the aeronautical applications.