Thin film radiation cured acrylate coatings, deposited in a vacuum or in atmospheric conditions can be used to functionalize the surface of a variety of substrates.  These include:  polymer films, metal-coated films, fibers, fabrics, paper and metal sheets. Combining in-line plasma treatment, for cleaning and functionalization of the substrate surface, with Sigma's specialty adhesion promoters guarantees excellent adhesion and fast processing. This versatile and economically viable technology can be used to enhance the properties of web substrates and to create composite films with new and unique properties.

PROCESSING TECHNIQUES
  • Flash Evaporation Vacuum Deposition and EB or UV Curing
  • Atmospheric Coating and UV Curing

SURFACE MODIFICATION

  • Surface Leveling Coatings
  • Scratch and Abrasion Resistant Coatings
  • Water Wetable Hydrophilic Coatings (Coating Angle <30)
  • Water Repelling Hydrophobic Coatings (Coating Angle >100)
  • Oleophobic/Hydrophobic, Teflon-like Coatings
  • Brittle Coatings for the Pigment Industry

SUBSTRATE MATERIALS

  • Polymer Films (polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester, Teflon, Nylon, polyurethane)
  • Metallized Polymer Films
  • Fibers and Fabrics
  • Paper
  • Metal Sheets and Wires
FUNCTIONAL COATINGS
  • Photoconductive Coatings
  • Ionically Conductive Polymer Electrolytes
  • Electrically Conductive Coatings
  • Infrared Transmitting Coatings
  • Ultraviolet Absorbing Coatings
  • Self-Colored Decorative Coatings
  • High Energy Density Coatings (Dielectric Constant > 10) for Capacitor Industry
  • Moisture and Vapor Barrier Coatings
  • Custom Formulations to Meet Specific Customer Needs

POLYMER COATING PROCESS

The coating process begins by vaporizing the acrylate monomer and then depositing the vapor through a nozzle system onto the film on a rotating drum. The monomer is presented to a radiation source, electron beam or UV, which activates the monomer and cures it instantly into a cross linked polymer layer.

Basic Properties of Acrylate Materials

  • Clear Transparent Abrasion Resistant Films
  • Amorphous, Pinhole Free, No Crevices or Particles
  • Deposition Thickness: 0.1 Micron to Several Microns
  • Coating Surface Has a Glass-like Uniformity Flattens and Smoothes the Base Surface
  • Polymers Can Be Functionalized: Physical, Chemical, Optical, and Electrical
  • Acrylates Are 100% Solids - Low Aroma
  • High Speed Deposition and Cure - Web Speeds Over 1000 feet/minute
  • Broad Selection of Monomers Available:  Low Cost, Large Volume
  • Conventional Metallizer Can Be Used
  • Low Incremental Cost for the Converted Film
  • Coating Improves Thermal Resistance
  • Coating Improves Mechanical Properties
  • Coating Improves Corrosion Resistance
  • Superior Oxygen and Moisture Barrier
Electron Beam Curtain
Monomer Curing Gun
Sigma manufactures linear electron beam curtains for curing acrylate monomers in a vacuum environment. The Sigma electron gun is a low-pressure gas discharge gun with a broad energy output. The discharge current can be tailored to specific applications. Its rugged design allows it to operate faultlessly over long periods of time. The Sigma electron gun has been tested extensively and successfully on a wide range of monomers over the last several years. Curtain lengths are available to cover any web widths (up to several meters long).    
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