Functionalized coating materials based on inorganic-organic polymers

ORMOCER(R)s (ORMOCER(R) Trademark of Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Forderung der angewandten Forschung e.V.) as inorganic-organic polymers synthesized b y a two-step sol-gel processing method can be applied as thin transparent c oatings on various substrates (polymers, metals, ceramics). The curing of O RMOCE(R)s is performed thermally (at temperatures below 200 degrees C) or b y UV-rodiation. Their high abrasion resistance and,oood chemical stability led to several actual industrial applications. Beside mechanical protection functions (e.g. for sensitive polymer substrates) additional functionaliti es of ORMOCER surfaces are investigated to find new application areas. This paper presents two additional surface functions of abrasion resistant ORMO CER(R) coatings: Antiadhesive and antistatic properties. Incorporation of p erfluorinated alkoxysilane compounds via sol-gel processing decreases the s urface energy of the cured layer. Water as well as non-polar substances los e their adhesion to the surface, wetting is reduced, solutions are drained off and particles can be removed easily. By addition of polar and/or ionic compounds bearing hydrolyzable alkoxysilyl groups a scratch resistant antis tatic coating for polycarbonate was developed. Compared to the uncoated sub strate, the specific surface resistance was decreased from 10(15) to 10(8) Omega . Electrostatic charging is decreased and attraction of particles inh ibited or reduced. The coatings are abrasion resistant and show very good a dhesion even in a wet climate. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights re served.