STRAYPROTECT
The Black Coating for Aerospace and Demanding Applications
With Advanced Cermet and CNT-Based Composite,
two Groundbreaking Technologies.
Innovative Superblack Technonologies
watch the video below
Our Technologies
CNT Composite
Composed of randomly oriented CNTs embedded in a transparent matrix. This architecture features an isotropic optical behaviour, while the trade-off between the optical and mechanical properties can be adjusted to fit the need. A strong light absorption is observed in the 250 nm - 10 um spectral range.
Advanced Cermet
The Advanced Cermet is composed of complex nanoparticles embedded in a transparent matrix. Beside the isotropic optical behaviour, these coatings feature improved mechanical properties. A strong light absorption is observed in an extended spectral range: 250 nm – 40 um.
STRAYPROTECT:
”StrayProtect solutions are based on a chemical dry process that is non-line-of-sight. A balance is observed throughout the relevant properties, including 3D complex structures made by additive manufacturing and ultra-thin metal foils (e-g. Al, Cu). StrayProtect coatings can be applied on ceramics, glasses and metals, and we target polymer structures in our future developments. “
PVD:
”Typical Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) solutions for superblack coatings are compatible with low-temperature materials and are robust. Limitations are observed for grazing reflections and the constrained absorption spectral range. The inherent line-of-sight character of the process is challenged when addressing complex, small and 3D structures.”
PAINT:
”Black paint can be applied to most materials, and exceptional optical performances can be reached. The resulting superblack layers are typically thick and fragile and major concerns are observed for complex, small 3D structures and for sharp edges.”
SPACE REQUIREMENTS FOR SUPER BLACK COATINGS
Reflection of light
✓ The integrated total hemispherical reflection (THR) in the λ: 250-2500nm range should be at most 1.5% for normal incidence (AOI=0).
✓ The requirement on reflection relaxes with increased angle of incidence (AOI) but should remain <10% for AOI>70°.
✓ The surface should feature a Lambertian reflection behavior.
Coating properties
✓ Applicable to 3D structures and sharp edges.
✓ Applicable to several materials
(Al, Ti, Ceramics, glass…)
✓ Cleanable
✓ Complies with adhesion requirements: tape test with 3M-250 (adhesion strength beyond 8N/cm)
✓ Complies with outgassing requirements:
RML < 0.1% and CVCM < 0.01%.
Coating durability
✓ Hygrometry test: 7 days at 45°C and 95% RH
✓ Thermal cycling: 100 cycles between -45°C and +80 ° C
✓ Exposure to Atomic Oxygen: 5-25 eV, 1.5×1021 atoms/cm2.
✓ Exposure to UV Radiation: l: 200-600nm, 410 mW/cm2.
✓ Radiation hardness: 30 eV, 1×1015 protons/cm2.
Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology
A mission-driven Research and Technology Organisation that develops advanced technologies and innovative products. The research on super-black coatings has been initiated in 2014 with the involvement of several industrial and academic European partners.
European Space Agency
International organisation that coordinates the financial and intellectual resources of its member states. ESA has triggered and funded this development starting its call for low TRL research (TRP) in 2014 “Innovative materials for super-black low-weight/cost baffles”
Luxembourg National Resarch Fund
The main funder of research activities in Luxembourg. It supports and coordinates activities to strengthen the link between science and society. The FNR funded terrestrial applications of the coating, namely in the solar-to-thermal and solar-to-chemical energy conversion.
