Omniphobic laser surface functionalization for diverse materials
Transform metal, polymer, glass, and ceramic surfaces into omniphobic and potentially antibacterial through laser surface functionalization, enhancing durability and resistance to liquids without additional coatings.
Overview
Laser surface functionalization offers an innovative method to transform the surfaces of metals, polymers, glass, and ceramics into omniphobic ones, repelling both oil and water-based liquids. This technique enhances surface durability by preventing the adhesion of slurries, gels, and other compound liquids. By manipulating the surface texture, the process requires no additional coatings or chemical compounds, ensuring eco-friendliness and safety. With further development, antibacterial properties can be integrated to prevent biofilm formation and transfection.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Applicable to metals, polymers, glass, and ceramics
- Permanent surface texturing without additional coatings
- Resistant to temperature, pressure, radiation, and abrasion
- Potential for antibacterial surface integration
The laser surface functionalization is a permanent, one-time treatment that is cost-effective and integrates seamlessly into existing manufacturing processes. It maintains its properties even after exposure to harsh conditions such as water jetting and conventional cleaning methods.
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at TRL 4, indicating that it has been validated in laboratory environments. Future validations include characterizing material responses and testing omniphobic and antibacterial properties in various conditions to optimize the process for commercial applications.
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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