SAF-ER

The SAFER Project aims to develop a process chain for producing polymer parts with reduced bacterial and fungal proliferation, low dirt accumulation, and enhanced molding performance.

Technology and Approach

The project leverages nanostructured coatings combined with laser texturing of molds to extend the functionalization’s durability. The same materials formulated in the project will be used to improve the injection molding process. The project has garnered interest from companies in the rubber/plastic sector, particularly those involved in technical articles, livestock farming and animal healthcare, and packaging.

Activities

• Development of Innovative Inorganic-Based Coatings: We use ceramic nanoparticles to create ultra-efficient anti-dirt coatings on pre-treated molds through Ultrashort Laser Texturing.
• Ultrafast Laser Texturing of Molds: We employ modern ultrashort pulse laser systems to precisely modify the surface of molds.
• Molding of Polymeric Parts: Injection molding, nanostructured coatings, and textured surfaces are used for series production of parts with low bacterial and fungal proliferation and reduced dirt accumulation.
• Microbiological Characterization: Synthesis of ceramic nanoparticles for creating coatings that reduce the dirt accumulation on pre-treated molds via Ultrashort Laser Texturing.

Objectives and Expected Results

By formulating and depositing cutting-edge, nanostructured, and hybrid composition coatings, it is possible to design surfaces highly repellent to liquids across a wide range of surface tensions.

• Highly Durable Nanostructured Surfaces
• Low Proliferation Materials and Components
• Microbiological Evaluation