Plastics degrade over time and lack advanced surface functions such as self cleaning, antimicrobial action, and resistance to staining or odor. Traditional ceramic coating methods need high temperatures that damage plastics, and solution based methods often give weakly bonded or low quality coatings. These limitations restrict the use of functional ceramic coatings on polymer-based materials in consumer, medical, and industrial applications. There is a need for a simple, low temperature process that can create durable ceramic layers on plastics while preserving the substrate.
The invention uses a low temperature aqueous process to grow nanostructured ceramic coatings such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide directly on plastic substrates. Coatings form through in situ precipitation and growth of nanoparticles and vertically aligned nanorods in supersaturated solutions below 90 degrees Celsius. The resulting layers have controlled crystallinity and provide photocatalytic self cleaning, antimicrobial, deodorizing, and improved mechanical properties while maintaining substrate integrity. This approach enables functional coating formation without damaging heat-sensitive plastics.
• Low temperature processing that protects heat sensitive plastics
• High crystallinity from in situ growth for improved performance
• Strong adhesion and durable functional coatings
• Photocatalytic self cleaning and antimicrobial activity
• Scalable and cost effective solution based processing
• Environmentally friendly aqueous chemistry
• United States 10,828,400 - Issued 11/10/2020
• United States 12,201,753 - Issued 1/21/2025
Prototype - Coating process demonstrated on plastic substrates at laboratory scale
This technology is available for licensing.
Strong potential for manufacturers in consumer goods, medical devices, packaging, and industrial materials seeking durable, functional coatings that enhance hygiene, longevity, and performance of plastic components.
Information available upon request.