Other

Yuri Gudimenko

Roderick C Tennyson

Zelina A Iskanderova

Jasha I Kleiman

Grant Rheal Cool

Grant R Cool

An an improved process for surface modification of solid substrates, such as polymers and carbon-based materials, is disclosed. The preferred process comprises three steps: a first activation step wherein reactive hydrogen groups are formed in a surface layer of a polymeric or carbon-based material; a second silylation step wherein the reactive hydrogen groups are reacted with a silylating agent to form silicon-containing groups; and a third stabilization step wherein an upper portion of the activated, silylated layer is oxidatively converted to a silicon and oxygen enriched surface layer. The process can be performed using materials not having pre-existing reactive hydrogen groups or precursor groups. Modified materials according to the present invention have improved properties, such as erosion resistance and oxygen and water barrier properties, and are potentially useful in numerous industries, such as aerospace and packaging.

Modification of subsurface region of polymers and carbon-based materials

This invention provides an improved process for surface modification of polymers, graphites and carbon-based composite materials, and improved surface-modified materials produced by the process. The preferred surface modification process of the present invention comprises the steps of: high dose single or multiple implantation of the substrate with energetic ions, including ions of at least one metal or semi-metal element able to form a stable, non-volatile oxide; and oxidative full or partial conversion of an upper portion of the implanted layer to a continuous, resistant oxide-enriched surface layer. The process may also comprise the additional implantation of a hardening non-metal element to participate in the formation of a glass-like surface layer or to form a carbonized, hardened sub-layer. Surface modified materials of the present invention have substantially improved resistance to erosion by atomic oxygen and to thermal cycling, as well as improved resistance to UV/air, improved surface hardness and wear resistance, tailored optical properties and altered surface energy, making them potentially useful in aerospace as well as other industries.

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North York, Canada

Yuri Gudimenko