SBIR-STTR Award

The protective properties of the oxide films that form on aluminum alloys can break down locally and allow extensive corrosion. An amorphous alloy system recently developed at the University of Virginia is promising as an environmentally compliant metal cladding. We propose a new method for converting alloy powder into coatings. This technique does not require large standoffs and has very high heating and cooling rates, which prevents grain growth and result in deposition of amorphous material. The substrate remains at low temperature during deposition.

Keywords:
Aluminum, Alloys, Cladding, Corrosion, Deposition, Oxides, Powder, Thermal Spray

This Small Business Technology Transfer Program is aimed at the development of an innovative method and procedure for depositing corrosion-resistant material to aircraft components as an alternative to aluminum cladding approaches. We plan to use environmentally compliant amorphous metal coatings from the Al-Co-Ce and similar alloy families that have recently been developed at the University of Virginia. It is the intent of this research project to demonstrate the practicality of the proposed concept as a performance-enhancing alternative with many desirable process advantages over existing approaches. The proposed Phase II program will carry out process optimization through both numerical simulations and an extensive experimental regime, as well as introduce more application-relevant diagnostics in order to fully evaluate the system's commercial potential. By the end of the Phase II, the technology is expected to be in an excellent position for transitioning to a viable commercial device.

Keywords:
Corrosion, Cladding, Aluminum Alloys, Coating, Thermal Spray, Field Repair