Laser nanotexturing for enhanced hydrophobicity in vapor recovery systems
FLITE Material Sciences offers an innovative laser nanotexturing process that enhances hydrophobicity, boosting thermal efficiency and vapor recovery in stack components without coatings, thereby reducing maintenance and improving efficiency.
Overview
FLITE Material Sciences introduces an advanced laser nanotexturing solution designed to enhance the hydrophobic properties of surfaces in vapor recovery systems. This innovative approach increases thermal efficiency and vapor collection capabilities, resulting in smaller, more efficient vapor stacks that require less frequent cleaning. Unlike traditional methods, our laser nanotexturing does not rely on coatings, eliminating concerns about delamination or thermal breakdown. This technology is applicable to various materials such as steel, ceramic, and glass, offering a robust and versatile solution for industrial applications.
Technical specifications
Our laser nanotexturing process creates micro and nano-scale textures on the surfaces of vapor stack components, significantly improving water collection and clearing rates. Key features include:
- Enhanced thermal efficiency by optimizing water droplet removal
- Improved hydrophobicity without the need for coatings
- Compatibility with multiple materials, including steel, titanium, and silicon carbide
- Superior to traditional roughened surfaces, reducing corrosion susceptibility
The process leverages FLITE's expertise in laser surface functionalization to achieve both superhydrophobic and hydrophilic properties, tailored to specific industrial needs.
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 6, having been validated in relevant environments but not yet fully deployed in operational settings. Future validation plans include testing small-scale 3D printed models under simulated conditions to further build the case for its widespread application in vapor recovery systems.
About FLITE Material Sciences
FLITE Material Sciences is a surface engineering company that utilizes laser surface functionalization to modify materials, offering an alternative to traditional, often toxic, chemical coatings. By retexturing the surface of materials such as metal, plastic, glass, and semiconductors at a microscopic level, the company enables these surfaces to autonomously repel substances like water, oil, ice, and bacteria. This process enhances material durability and performance without weakening the underlying substrate, providing a cleaner, more sustainable solution for industrial manufacturing. The technology is applicable across a wide range of sectors, including aerospace, defense, automotive, oil and gas, and life sciences.
For industrial partners and customers, FLITE’s solutions address critical maintenance and durability challenges by extending the operational life of equipment and reducing long-term upkeep costs. The company focuses on integrating its laser texturing techniques directly into manufacturing supply chains, aiming to make industrial products safer and more resilient while minimizing environmental impact. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Montreal, FLITE has engaged with numerous industry leaders to validate its technology through targeted projects and is actively working toward commercial-scale applications for complex industrial environments.
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