Graphene-Polyurethane Coating on Leather for Durable Conductivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for making natural or synthetic leather conductive with graphene fail to maintain thermal and electrical dispersion properties over time and do not allow for surface finishes that mimic the aesthetic and morphological features of tanned leather.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layer coating method using aliphatic polyurethanes and graphene nano-platelets with specific dimensions and a C/O ratio, applied in a sequence of internal, intermediate, and external layers, to create a stable thermally and electrically conductive surface on natural or synthetic leather, optionally with decorative patterns and surface morphology.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If graphene is applied to the surface of leather using conventional methods, then electrical and thermal conductivity is achieved, but the conductivity is removed by rubbing and surface wear over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds graphene particles within the porous structure of the leather substrate, nesting the conductive material inside the natural voids of the collagen matrix rather than applying it only on the surface. This nested configuration protects the graphene from external mechanical damage while maintaining electrical and thermal conductivity pathways throughout the material bulk.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes the inherent porous structure of leather to embed graphene particles within its voids. The porous collagen matrix acts as a protective framework that holds graphene particles internally, preventing their removal by surface wear while maintaining conductivity. The porous structure allows graphene to be distributed throughout the material rather than concentrated only at the vulnerable surface.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional graphene application methods are used, then conductivity is achieved, but surface finishes with aesthetic effects and decorative patterns cannot be obtained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different treatments to different regions of the leather surface, allowing specific areas to have decorative patterns, embossing, or color variations while maintaining conductivity. The graphene distribution can be localized or varied by region, enabling aesthetic surface finishes with decorative effects while ensuring conductivity in required areas through the embedded particles in the porous structure.
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 method provides a durable and aesthetically appealing conductive coating that maintains thermal and electrical conductivity, effectively dissipating heat and electrical charges, while replicating the surface features of tanned leather, enhancing comfort and functionality in applications like garments and furniture.
Implementation Method 1
The method provides a durable and aesthetically appealing conductive coating that maintains thermal and electrical conductivity, effectively dissipating heat and electrical charges
Implementation Method 2
The method provides a durable and aesthetically appealing conductive coating that maintains thermal and electrical conductivity, effectively dissipating heat and electrical charges
Data Source
AI summary
Method for making a thermally and electrically conductive coating on natural or synthetic leather comprising the deposition of several layers based on aliphatic polyurethanes, with an intermediate layer, having a thickness from 10 to 50 μm, comprising graphene nano-platelets, wherein at least 90% has a lateral dimension (x, y) from 50 to 50000 μm and a thickness (z) from 0.34 to 50 nm, and wherein the C/O ratio is ≥100:1.