Samples of textiles under microscopy.
Lead inventor: Darren Johnson
Co-inventors: Darren Johnson, Tawney Knecht, Jordan Levine, Alex Rosen
Licensing contact: Christine Dixon Thiesing

1. Technology Overview

The invention introduces a novel methodology for creating water-repellent coatings on textiles using UV light and an aluminum precursor. This ultralow-temperature process forms aluminum oxide (Al2O3) coatings, offering a scalable and cost-effective solution for enhancing the durability and water resistance of textiles. The technology leverages solution processing methods, making it suitable for large-scale applications in textile manufacturing, outdoor apparel, automotive, and aerospace industries. Currently in the development stage, this technology holds significant potential for commercialization.

2. Key Features and Benefits

  • Low-temperature processing: Forms aluminum oxide coatings at ultralow temperatures, reducing energy consumption.
  • Cost-effective: Utilizes inexpensive starting materials, lowering overall production costs.
  • High scalability: Solution processing methods enable large-scale production.
  • Versatile application: Suitable for a variety of textiles and industries.
  • Enhanced durability: Provides durable and water-repellent coatings, improving textile performance.

3. Applications and Market Focus

  • Textile manufacturing: Enhancing the durability and water resistance of textiles.
  • Outdoor apparel: Providing scalable solutions for performance apparel coatings.
  • Automotive and aerospace: Offering protective coatings for fabrics and materials.
  • Research and development: Supporting further innovation in textile coatings and materials science.
  • Custom solutions: Developing tailored water-repellent coatings for specific applications.

4. Commercial Advantages

  • Strategic benefits: Offers a scalable and efficient solution for water-repellent textile coatings.
  • Implementation advantages: Simplifies the development of durable and high-performance coatings.
  • Market positioning: Positions the technology as a key enabler in textile manufacturing and related industries.
  • Competitive edge: Provides a unique and effective method for forming aluminum oxide coatings at ultralow temperatures.

5. Partnership Opportunities

  • Licensing partners: Ideal for companies in textile manufacturing, outdoor apparel, and automotive/aerospace industries.
  • Cross-sector benefits: Offers advantages to multiple industries, including textiles and performance apparel.
  • Market opportunities: Addresses diverse market needs, from textile coatings to protective materials.
  • Collaborative development: Potential for joint ventures with research institutions and manufacturing firms to further enhance the technology.
Patent filing: US20220380972A1