New nanocrystalline Cu-Ni alloy processing technology to support Canadian manufacturing Industries in marine, offshore drilling and renewable energy applications

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This project addresses the needs for novel, efficient and sustainable manufacturing processes, currently not available elsewhere in the world, to produce durable nanocrystalline corrosion/wear/erosion-resistant coatings in large quantities for marine applications in the areas of shipbuilding and repair, offshore oil & gas platforms and marine renewable energy. The research includes synthesis, characterization and testing of nanocrystalline Cu-Ni alloys made by electrodeposition and extensive process modeling. The proposed technology is expected to enable cost-effective production of nanocrystalline components in large quantities and in-situ/on-site repair of degraded parts in marine services. The project was formulated and will be executed in close collaboration with our industrial partner, Integran Technologies, Inc., Toronto, a world leader in nanomaterials for sustainable technologies. The project builds upon a very successful existing nanotechnology platform previously developed in part through collaborative university-industry research and development efforts by the same partners. It is expected that this technology can be transitioned to generate within the next 5-10 years revolutionary new nanocrystalline Cu-Ni coating solutions for a wide range of Canadian manufacturing industries making parts for marine environment applications. The successful execution of this project will significantly increase applications of nanometer scale materials structure design, and has a high potential to be applied in new areas currently not covered by other manufacturing approaches, thereby creating new business opportunities for Canadian surface finishing industries, and increasing competitiveness of the Canadian manufacturing sector in the global economy. The research will generate new knowledge, train highly qualified personnel for the manufacturing sector 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.