Name:
Innovative metallization of polymers

Developed by:
Augmentech -(Slovenia)
Private company

Country(ies) involved:
Slovenia

Funding sources:
EU

General idea:
Contribution to development of blue economy: Novel and disruptive technology that uses algae for the metallization of polymers. This process will allow a sustainable and more competitive metallization process.

Description:
Description: Some microalgae under special conditions (e.g. anaerobic conditions in sulfur-depleted culture medium) possess strong reductive capacity that can be used to reduce metal salts and deposit metals as layers on a substrate surface (polymer). These conditions can be achieved in bioreactors.
By the addition of »metabolic boosters« and/or the selection of special algae strains it is possible to grow the same algae in »toxic« conditions (growth medium with high concentration of metal ions).
With the combination of the above principles it is possible to deposit reduced metals (Pt, Ag, Cu, Al…) on specific surfaces. Depending on the application and desired characteristics of the final product, some surface modification (functionalization) may be needed.
Aim: The EU-funded polyBioMetal project is recruiting the help of metal-depositing algae to create an economically viable and eco-friendly alternative to current vacuum deposition techniques.
Challenges/needs addressed: current vacuum coating technology used for surface metallization requires expensive vacuum coating facilities, harsh chemicals and high temperatures that add up to a high environmental impact. Novel technologies are in demand as it might optimize mettalization process in the terms of cost and environmental impact.
Impact and usefulness: environmentally friendly and cost optimal process of metallization.
Contribution to innovations: completely new and green technology for the metallization of polymer surfaces for aesthetic reasons (decorative finishing) or for functional reasons (e.g. light reflectance in headlights).
During the project was realized that the technology could also be applied to glass surface treatment.
Stakeholders: injection moulding industry in Europe.
More information: http://polybiometal.augmentech.si/

TRL:
2.Technology concept formulated

Sources:
Document/literature review