Development on advanced electrophoretic deposition system for fabrication and processing of irradiated hybrid nanocomposites

Abstract

Electrophoretic deposition (EPD) is attracting increasing interest as a materials processing technique for a wide range of technical applications. This technique enables the production of unique microstructures and nanostructures as well as novel and complex material combinations such as hybrid nanocomposites, in a variety of macroscopic shapes, dimensions and arrangements starting from micron-sized or nanosized particles. In the standard EPD process (lab scale), two electrodes, the working electrode (substrate material) and the counter electrode are immersed in a suspension. In pilot scale, the fully automated system consists suspension compartment with ultrasonic transducer, electrodes in-line system, programmable AC/DC power supply, washing system, drying/annealing system and others. The advantages of EPD are rather simple equipment, the flexibility in substrate shape/dimension and coating materials choice as well as the ability to easily control the homogeneity and thickness of the coatings. Pilot scale deposition facilities or the advanced EPD system, involves semi-automatic operation with accurate deposit thickness control. This promising technique is a better choice than other techniques which are more expensive, less efficient and harmful to environment. The hybrid nanocomposites have been proven to exhibit superior properties than the conventional materials. To make full use of the properties derived from particles, it is important to control the arrangement of particles with high packing density in hybrid nanocomposites. The Ultrasonic irradiation assisted in this system has been found to enable desired particle arrangement and packing density with various shapes. Besides, with the implementation of Gamma irradiation (Pretreatment) as replacement for chemical treatment and EB irradiation for enhancement of conductivity and uniformity of the coatings (Post treatment) can distribute efficiently. It is expected that the system is enable to be employed in variety functions and applications. This paper will discuss the development of the system, the advantages and the relevancy of this system in variety applications.