Tolga Aytug

Tolga Aytug, a Knoxville-based inventor, has made significant contributions to the fields of nanotechnology and material science, with over 18 patents to his name. His most recent patents involve the production of metal-carbon composites and the creation of superhydrophobic transparent glass thin film articles.

Aytug's patent on metal-carbon composites focuses on a method of producing a carbon nanotube-metal composite. In this method, carbon nanotubes are layered onto a metal substrate by depositing a liquid suspension of carbon nanotubes onto it. The liquid is then subjected to a shearing force, which aligns the carbon nanotubes parallel to the metal substrate. Once the liquid is removed, the carbon nanotubes are adhered to the metal surface and partially aligned with each other. This new composite material can be used in various applications, including electronic devices, sensors, and energy storage.

Another innovative patent by Aytug is the superhydrophobic transparent glass (STG) thin film articles. This patent describes an article with a nanostructured surface, which is optically transparent. A hydrophobic coating is applied to this surface, allowing it to repel water and maintain its transparency. The method of making this article includes depositing a film on the substrate, decomposing it, and then etching it to form the nanostructured layer. This new type of glass can have numerous applications in various industries, from automotive to architectural.

Aytug's work was conducted while he was employed at UT-Battelle, Inc. and the University of Tennessee Research Foundation. He collaborated with other researchers on several projects, including Mariappan Paranthaman and John T. Simpson.

In conclusion, Tolga Aytug's innovative approach to nanotechnology research has resulted in numerous patents related to material science and nanotechnology. His work is expected to have a significant impact on modern technology and industry.