Functionalisation of materials: modifying and improving their properties

The magic of materials functionalisation

The functionalisation of materials allows us to modify their properties in a controlled manner. In this way, we can improve their performance and broaden their areas of application.

At ATRIA, we use different technologies for surface functionalisation, such as coatings, laser microstructuring or additivation. Thanks to these technologies, we can achieve different types of functionalities.

Our experience in the functionalisation of materials allows us to select the technology that best suits the needs of our customers, taking into account the starting material, the production process and the customer’s requirements.

Rubén Gracia

Functionalisation expert at ATRIA

Types of functional surfaces

At ATRIA, we have experience in achieving various types of functionalities for your surface:

These surfaces have low affinity for water, meaning that water does not adhere to them. Therefore, when a water droplet falls on a hydrophobic surface, it slides and accumulates in a spherical shape.

Attracts water droplets, forming a film on them. This is because water easily adheres to these surfaces, forming a contact angle less than 90º.

This type of functionality repels fats and oils. When in contact with these liquids, they form small droplets that slide off easily.

Fats and oils adhere to these surfaces as a film, as if forming a wax-like layer.

These substances help prevent bacteria from forming biofilms (communities of bacteria or other microorganisms that adhere to a surface and protect themselves with a layer of sticky substances).

These surfaces, thanks to their properties, reduce or inhibit the growth of microorganisms.

Kills bacteria upon contact. They are very effective in eliminating germs and preventing infections.

Cleaning surfaces is easier with these functionalities. They eliminate dirt, reducing effort.

They prevent stains from adhering to surfaces, whether they are water-based or oil-based.

They are able to remove dirt and stains on their own, which helps to keep the surface clean and shiny.

They have the ability to protect surfaces from icing, delay the formation of ice or help to prevent ice from sticking to them.

They are a practical and decorative feature that helps keep surfaces free from fingerprints and finger marks.

They tackle unpleasant odors using various techniques to absorb, neutralize, or block odor molecules present in the environment or on the surface itself.

This technology allows us to break down organic air and surface pollutants. In this way, it contributes to improving air quality and the environment.

Designed to absorb moisture from the environment and prevent it from condensing on surfaces that need to remain dry.

Very useful for improving visibility caused by the condensation of water droplets.

They prevent stains and blockages in your home by inhibiting the accumulation of limescale, especially calcium, which forms due to hard water.

With this functionality, the polymer films are more resistant to the passage of water vapour and oxygen.

With it, we can prevent particles, water, pollution, and other unwanted elements from sticking to surfaces.

A proper surface preparation is essential to ensure good adhesion of subsequent processes (painting, coatings, or adhesives).

They protect metal surfaces from the corrosive action of agents such as humidity, salt, or other chemicals.

This feature is the best way to protect your surface from scratches and abrasions. It is an invisible layer applied to the surface, making it more resistant to impacts.

We apply a thin layer of metal onto a surface. It is used to enhance the properties of that surface, such as electrical conductivity, reflectivity, decorative appearance, or corrosion resistance.

They reduce the resistance to movement and friction between two surfaces in contact.

The proprietary methodology of functionalization

With the aim of choosing the best technology to functionalize a material, we take into account the desired functionality, the starting material, and the production process. For this, we follow a methodology that allows us to select the most suitable technology.

1

To approach the following phases with guarantees, it is essential to thoroughly understand the product: what it does, what it is made of, how it is manufactured, and what is expected from it.

2

With our expertise and analysis, we assist you in choosing the technology that best suits your product and manufacturing process.

3

We recommend conducting a proof of concept. It’s a straightforward way to become acquainted with the functionality and identify potential issues.

4

To make sure that everything works as it should, we perform the necessary functional characterisation and testing.

5

We take care of finding the most suitable production technique for your needs, always choosing the one that best suits your material, type of product and production volume.

Our laboratory team

We work with different technologies to modify the surface properties of materials. In this way, we can obtain the functionality that best suits each case.

Laser microstructuring Coatings Other technologies

With laser technology, we can create textures on the surface of materials in a precise way. These microstructures, inspired by nature, can be created directly or indirectly (IMM and R2R) enhancing the properties of the material.

We can use laser technology so that we incorporate the microstructures into the material during the injection process.

Using rollers with pressure and/or heat, we can print textures on flexible surfaces, such as plastics, metals and fabrics.

Thanks to the laser, we can engrave microstructures directly on the surface of materials.

Functional coatings are chemical compounds that are placed on a material to give it new properties or desired functionalities. They can be applied in a variety of ways.

We dip the surface to be treated in a bath with the selected coating.

We apply a coating by decomposing the precursor chemicals in water, which creates a solution (colloid), which we then polymerise or cross-link to form that three-dimensional network on the surface.

We evaporate through an electric arc or ion beam a solid target, which we deposit on the substrate to form a thin surface.

We deposit the precursors introduced in the reaction chamber on the substrate to form a thin film.

It is a variant of CVD in which we use a plasma to activate the precursor chemicals in the gas phase.

This is the process we use to create layers of materials from colloidal suspensions. We often use it with nanoparticles to improve properties.

In addition to laser technology and coatings, we can apply other technologies to achieve the functionalisation of a material.

We can use the laser either to activate the surface, clean it and/or apply a thin layer of a precursor.

To improve the properties of a material, we can add additives.

Applications of materials functionalisation

Materials functionalisation allows us to modify the properties of materials to improve their performance in a wide range of applications.

With these coatings we can repel dirt and grease, which makes them easier to clean.

Allows us to use touch screens with wet fingers.

These surfaces can repair themselves after a small scratch or crack.

This property makes glass ceramic hobs more resistant to scratches and stains.

18. Desarrollo de filtros autolimpiables

We make these filters self-cleaning, which reduces the time and cost of maintenance.

We use these coatings to repel dust and dirt, which improves the efficiency of the photovoltaic panels.

This property makes automotive products easier to clean and maintain.

We can reduce the risk of water droplets forming on plastic surfaces, thereby improving their aesthetics and functionality.

Our projects

View all projects

Materials and Testing

We improve the properties of the plastic and achieve a 160º contact angle with water without modifying the production process or adding coatings.

Materials and Testing

We improve the superhydrophobic properties of polypropylene through a coating with high resistance to chemical agents and wear.

Materials and Testing

We designed an oleophobic microstructuration laser process for injection mold, to later transfer it to a plastic part.

Other technologies

We select, apply, and test smart materials that respond to external stimuli in a controlled manner.

We develop and apply layers on a material to enhance its surface properties or provide it with new functionalities.

We investigate the causes of failures in an industrial process or commercial product and propose customized solutions to resolve them.

We select and conduct tests that best suit your needs and those of your product, utilizing our wide range of equipment to ensure its quality and safety.

We analyze the properties and behavior of your materials with specialized equipment to help you choose the right material for your project.

We create tiny holes in a material, thereby modifying its properties, allowing us to control the flow of elements passing through it.

We can endow materials with properties they didn't have before, without the need for adding coatings or chemical agents.

Contact

Your success is our goal. We want to be your partner in the development of your projects, leveraging the power of innovation, flexibility, and the trust we provide. Together, we make a difference through new technologies.

Contact us and let’s build the future together!

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