Development of a Manufacturing Technology for Functional Surface Finishing

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This project addresses the needs by Canadian manufacturing industries in the area of new material systems for corrosion/wear/erosion-resistant coatings with the added functionalities of providing metallic surface finishes with superhydrophobicity (anti-wetting, anti-icing, self-cleaning), thermal management (conductivity, coefficient of thermal expansion) and decorative (color) properties. These novel surface finishes will be made by a co-deposition electroplating technology using nanocrystalline nickel based materials containing either polymer latex spheres, industrial diamond or plant-derived pigments. The project was formulated and will be executed in close collaboration with Integran Technologies Inc., Toronto, a world leader in nanomaterials for sustainable technologies. It will be built upon an existing nanotechnology platform previously developed through collaborative university-industry research and development efforts. It is expected that this technology can be transitioned to generate, within the next 5-10 years, revolutionary new coating solutions for a wide range of Canadian manufacturing industries making parts for automotive, aerospace, electrical, electronics, energy, forestry, mining, construction, machinery, consumer products, defense and green technology applications. The research will generate new knowledge, train highly qualified personnel and create new intellectual property for Canada. Ultimately, expanded and new business opportunities resulting in new revenues and job creation are expected from this wholly Canadian-owned new technology.