Flexible Barrier Materials for Technical Applications

Research output: Contribution to journalConference articlepeer-review

27 Scopus citations

Abstract

Flexible polymeric components are presently in focus for applications in an increasing number of technical fields. High added-value areas of application potentially include: Improved vacuum insulating panels having long lifetimes (decades), encapsulation of solar modules (first for inorganic, then for organic semiconductors), flexible displays based on organic emitters and polymer electronic devices. For all these areas, the required oxygen and water vapor barriers are orders of magnitude beyond what can be achieved by current state-of-the-art industrial polymer technology. In order to meet these challenges, complex barrier layer systems are being developed in adapted structures. The application of economic roll-to-roll processes is another key requirement. As part of the activities of the Fraunhofer Alliance for Polymer Surfaces, combinations of different inorganic vacuum-deposited coatings and coatings of inorganic-organic hybrid polymers made under atmospheric conditions are being studied. The resulting barrier effects are described and analyzed via semi-quantitative models. These layer combinations will give the "tool case" for subsequent cost-efficient production of barrier systems, especially because of the excellent barrier properties of the inorganic-organic hybrid polymers which represent a scaling factor for the total barrier performance of layer combinations. As regards further activities, there is a strong need for investment in integrated equipment for R&D and pilot scale production.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)559-565
Number of pages7
JournalProceedings, Annual Technical Conference - Society of Vacuum Coaters
StatePublished - 2003
Externally publishedYes
Event46th Annual Technical Conference Proceedings - San Francisco, CA, United States
Duration: 3 May 20038 May 2003

Keywords

  • Moisture permeation
  • Oxygen permeation
  • Permeation barrier coatings
  • Polymer base coats

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