Solventless Polyurethane Coating for Carbon Nanotube Conductivity
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Carbon nanotube (CNT) networks used for electrically conductive applications, such as aerospace coatings, face significant resistance changes when exposed to solvents in typical topcoats, leading to conductivity loss and potential failure in resistive heating operations.
Innovation Solution
A solventless polyurethane coating composition with isocyanate crosslinking agents is applied directly to the CNT network, maintaining electrical conductivity and providing mechanical and chemical durability, preventing subsequent coatings from disrupting the CNT network's conductivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a solventless polyurethane coating is applied to maintain CNT conductivity, then the electrical conductivity is preserved, but the chemical resistance to environmental hazards may be reduced compared to conventional topcoats
Solution Approach 1:
The solution employs a composite coating system where solventless polyurethane is combined with other functional layers. This composite approach allows the polyurethane to provide conductivity preservation while complementary layers enhance chemical resistance to environmental hazards
2Reliability
If multiple coating layers are added to provide comprehensive protection, then the durability and environmental resistance are improved, but the complexity of the coating system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The solventless polyurethane coating is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical durability, chemical resistance, and serves as a compatible base for subsequent topcoats. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized layers, simplifying the overall coating system
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 solventless coating maintains the CNT network's conductivity, with sheet resistance changes of 81% or less, ensuring the CNTs' electrical properties are preserved, and the coating provides sufficient chemical resistance to environmental hazards, enhancing the durability and performance of CNT-based aerospace applications.
Implementation Method 1
A method of making a layered CNT-containing composition comprises: providing a CNT layer that is disposed on a substrate; and applying a solventless polymer precursor directly onto the CNT layer.
Implementation Method 2
the coating provides sufficient chemical resistance to environmental hazards, enhancing the durability and performance of CNT-based aerospace applications
Data Source
AI summary
A method of coating a carbon nanotube material with a solventless coating composition is described. The resulting coating has been shown to preserve the conductivity of the conductive layer and protect the conductive layer from the effects of subsequent coating compositions. Examples are shown in which the coating formulation comprises a polyol and an isocyanate. A layer material comprising a polyurethane coating on a carbon nanotube network layer is also described.