New processes based on a nanoparticle reactor-injector for the plasma deposition of multifunctional nanocomposite thin films (RI-plasma)

PROJECT COST:

487 510 $

PRIMA CONTRIBUTION:

221 112 $

PROJECT DETAILS:

Nanocomposite materials have played a pivotal role in the aerospace sector for over five decades. In numerous high-performance applications worldwide, a critical challenge remains the fabrication of coatings composed of isolated, non-aggregated nanoparticles with dimensions on the order of 10 nm, homogeneously and controllably dispersed within a host matrix.

Within the framework of this international and interdisciplinary collaboration, our objective is to investigate the potential of a novel synthesis strategy for nanocomposite thin films. This approach is flexible, environmentally sustainable, safe, and readily scalable to industrial implementation. It relies on a patented nanoparticle reactor–injector system, engineered from a commercial atomizer developed by our industrial partner, Kemstream.

In alignment with the research priorities identified by the industrial partner Safran (with active presence in Canada), particular emphasis will be placed on the design of advanced functional surfaces. Specifically, they will focus on thin-film architectures incorporating metal oxide nanoparticles (ZnO and NiOx) uniformly dispersed within diamond-like carbon matrices, with the aim of enhancing performance and durability in aerospace-relevant environments.