An electrically conductive multi-layer material
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrically conductive multi-layer materials for leak detection in structures, such as roofs, face issues with complex installation, delamination, and inadequate conductivity, leading to reduced measurement accuracy and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layer material comprising a woven glass fibre web with a vinyl polymer binding agent and fire retardant compound, impregnated with electrically conductive carbon particles and coated with a metallic layer using vacuum deposition, which also includes a corrosion-resistant nickel layer for enhanced conductivity and ease of installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a woven glass fibre web is coated with a metallic electrically conductive layer by vacuum deposition, then electrical conductivity is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a woven glass fibre web with carbon particles and a metallic coating layer to create a composite material that achieves superior electrical conductivity. The glass fibre provides structural integrity, carbon particles enhance conductivity, and the metallic coating (applied via vacuum deposition) ensures reliable electrical contact and corrosion resistance, resolving the contradiction between conductivity improvement and manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the physical and chemical parameters of the glass fibre web by impregnating it with carbon particles and coating it with metal layers. This changes the electrical conductivity parameter from insulating to highly conductive, while the vacuum deposition process controls the coating thickness and quality to balance performance with manufacturing feasibility
2Measurement precision
If a metallic electrically conductive layer is applied to the glass fibre web, then measurement accuracy is improved, but susceptibility to corrosion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-layer composite structure where the metallic coating provides excellent electrical conductivity for accurate measurements, while the underlying glass fibre web and carbon particle impregnation provide corrosion resistance. This composite approach allows the metal layer to perform its electrical function without being directly exposed to corrosive environments
Solution Approach 2:
The glass fibre web acts as an intermediary between the metallic coating and the external environment. It provides a stable, corrosion-resistant substrate that supports the metallic layer, preventing direct contact between the metal and corrosive agents while maintaining electrical conductivity through the carbon particles
3Reliability
If carbon particles are used to impregnate the glass fibre web, then electrical conductivity is enhanced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single material system: the glass fibre web provides structural support, carbon particles provide electrical conductivity, and the metallic coating enhances both conductivity and corrosion resistance. This merging of functions into one integrated material simplifies the overall system compared to using separate components, making manufacturing more manageable despite the advanced materials involved
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides improved conductivity and simplified installation, enhancing the accuracy and effectiveness of leak detection in structures while reducing costs associated with complex installation methods.
Implementation Method 1
one side of the woven glass fibre web is coated with metallic electrically conductive layer by the means of vacuum deposition
Implementation Method 2
The woven glass fibre web is impregnated with electrically conductive carbon particles
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to conductive multi-layer materials for leak detection applications. The electrically conductive multi-layer material comprises a woven glass fibre web (2) having a binding agent (4) and a fire retardant compound (5), which is impregnated with electrically conductive carbon particles (6), wherein one side of the glass fibre web (2) is coated with metallic electrically conductive layer (10) by the means of vacuum deposition.