This invention enables durable ceramic coatings on plastics, solving the common problem that traditional ceramic coating methods require high heat that damages plastic materials. Using a low-temperature solution process, it creates strongly bonded, high-quality ceramic layers that add useful features like self-cleaning, antimicrobial behavior, and improved durability without complex equipment or harsh processing conditions.
Background: Plastics degrade over time and lack advanced surface functions such as self cleaning, antimicrobial action, and resistance to staining or odor. Traditional ceramic coating methods need high temperatures that damage plastics, and solution based methods often give weakly bonded or low quality coatings. These limitations restrict the use of functional ceramic coatings on polymer-based materials in consumer, medical, and industrial applications. There is a need for a simple, low temperature process that can create durable ceramic layers on plastics while preserving the substrate.
Technology Overview: The invention uses a low temperature aqueous process to grow nanostructured ceramic coatings such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide directly on plastic substrates. Coatings form through in situ precipitation and growth of nanoparticles and vertically aligned nanorods in supersaturated solutions below 90 degrees Celsius. The resulting layers have controlled crystallinity and provide photocatalytic self cleaning, antimicrobial, deodorizing, and improved mechanical properties while maintaining substrate integrity. This approach enables functional coating formation without damaging heat-sensitive plastics.
Advantages: • Low temperature processing that protects heat sensitive plastics • High crystallinity from in situ growth for improved performance • Strong adhesion and durable functional coatings • Photocatalytic self cleaning and antimicrobial activity • Scalable and cost effective solution based processing • Environmentally friendly aqueous chemistry
Applications: • Self cleaning and antimicrobial consumer plastics • Antimicrobial coatings for medical devices • Functional textiles and fabrics • Home appliance and fixture surfaces • Automotive and transport interior surfaces • Construction and architectural materials • Air and water purification systems • Functional packaging with antimicrobial properties • Consumer electronics surfaces • Sports and outdoor equipment coatings • Children’s products with hygiene focused surfaces • Flexible solar cell components using ZnO nanorods • Industrial protective coatings
Intellectual Property Summary: • United States 10,828,400 - Issued 11/10/2020 • United States 12,201,753 - Issued 1/21/2025
Stage of Development: Prototype - Coating process demonstrated on plastic substrates at laboratory scale
Licensing Status: This technology is available for licensing.
Licensing Potential: Strong potential for manufacturers in consumer goods, medical devices, packaging, and industrial materials seeking durable, functional coatings that enhance hygiene, longevity, and performance of plastic components.
Additional Information: Information available upon request.
Inventors: Junghyun Cho
Alternate NCS Title: Low Temperature Nano Ceramic Coatings for Durable and Self Cleaning Plastics