Functionalization
Improved material properties
Functional surfaces allow us to modify the surface of a material to protect it against external agents, prevent the deposition of substances, improve its properties or achieve new functionalities that the base material does not have.
We transform the surfaces of materials such as steel, aluminum, plastics, glass, foams, etc…
Our service is flexible and covers from the selection and development of the coating or material, to the realization of customized tests and its industrial implementation.
With the application of the functional surface techniques shown below, improvements of different properties can be achieved depending on the technique used.
Functional surfaces also include the group of smart materials. These can modify their properties by means of external stimuli, such as light, heat, humidity, electric fields, force, pH or some chemical compounds.
Even smart materials can be identified as sensors, actuators or controllers because they react to stimuli by generating a useful response.
What do we do in Functional Surfaces?
Technology selection
By studying our customer’s requirements, we select the technology that best suits their needs. We work with the main chemical and material development companies, selecting the most suitable for each project.
Materilas development
In case there is no solution on the market, ATRIA develops its own solutions in its Materials Laboratory.
Application
In our Materials laboratory, we can apply through various techniques such as dip-coating, spraying, roll-to-roll… the selected solution on your product. This is a critical step.
Tests and trials
All materials, whether self-developed or existing solutions, must be tested to verify that their functionality is as expected and that they meet all customer requirements. Smart materials need specific tests, in case the test does not exist, we develop it for you.
Functional Surface Technologies
Coatings
Coatings are a thin layer of material that is applied by technologies such as spraying or dip-coating. These coatings can improve the properties of the final product: surfaces that clean better, materials with anti-condensation properties or prevent icing.
Additivation
Additives can modify and improve the physical, chemical and process properties of the polymer. Additives can improve from condensation, sliding between parts, static electricity, adhesion…
Roll-to-roll
Roll-to-roll generates a microstructure in the material passing through its rollers, giving it a new functionality. It is used in sectors such as packaging and also in applications such as the anti-counterfeiting of banknotes or elements for pharmacy.
Laser
Laser technology makes it possible to modify the physical and chemical properties of materials, changing the color of a polymer, cutting, cleaning or welding metals such as steel. The laser allows the decoration of materials, cutting, welding, microstructuring…
In Mould Microstructuration (IMM)
Modification of the mold structure to transfer different patterns and functionalities to the injected parts. This patterning can provide the surface with new properties such as superhydrophobicity, hydrophilicity, condensation, anti-icing or water slip. The functionality will depend on the geometry and size of the microstructures.
Tecnologías de Materiales Inteligentes
Hidrocromics
Hydrochromic materials change color on contact with water. In addition, depending on their properties, they can vary to transparent and can be integrated into fabric, textiles and paper.
Thermochromic
Thermochromic materials change color according to temperature depending on the type of material and can be modified and controlled.
Photoluminescent
Photoluminescent materials emit luminous radiation after being subjected to external stimulation.
Graphene
Graphene can improve properties such as hardness, strength, thermal and electrical conductivity, elasticity, flexibility and others.
Self-repairing
They recover a pre-established morphology in response to temperature, water, chemical or electromagnetic field stimuli.
Photochromic
Photochromic materials change color reversibly from a whitish or transparent color to an intense one.
Functionalities
Easy cleaning (E2C)
Improves surface cleanliness by preventing stains from being deposited.
Anti-corrosion
Prevent corrosive agents from touching the substrate and the appearance of rust
Anti-fingerprint
Avoid the imprint of oil from skin, sweat or cosmetics when touching surfaces.
Anti-lime
Prevents the contact and adhesion of lime with the surface, keeping it clean.
Anti-frost
Prevents ice formation by avoiding contact with water.
Condensation
Improve equipment efficiency and achieve different aesthetic effects.
What can we get in Functional Surfaces?
Reduced deposition of substances or stains
Improve abrasion resistance
New properties during the plastic injection molding process
Improve adhesion of inks or adhesives
Reduction in the cleaning of parts subjected to processes involving paints
Disminución de la aparición de biofilm en plásticos
Water barriers for electronic systems
High oxidation resistance and high aesthetic quality marking
Color logos by laser marking
