Abstract:  The ability to tailor coatings on the microscale and nanoscale has enabled the development of coatings that provide high levels of wear and corrosion resistace to metallic substates. Although nanostructured coatings can be deposited by various means, this presentation focused on coatings deposited by three different processes:  closed-field unbalanced magnetron sputtering, pulse reverse current electrodepostion, and thermal reactive deposition.

Akron Surface Technologies Inc. (ASTI) was among six companies to receive a $100,000 award from the Third Frontier Technology Validation and Start-Up Fund, which supports the development of new technologies for licensing and commercialization.

“The investment in technology is an investment in Ohio’s future, bringing new ideas and jobs to the state,” said David Goodman, director of the Ohio Development Services Agency and chair of the Ohio Third Frontier Commission.

ASTI's award is aimed at developing and testing a metal coating to increase the lifespan of mechanical parts by increasing durability and decreasing friction.

Sponsored by NorTech and Crain’s Cleveland Business, the NorTech Innovation Awards honor the region's most innovative organizations that have either demonstrated dramatic impact in a specific industry or market sector, or have the clear potential to do so in the near future.

ASTI was recognized for its accomplishments in developing engineered surface solutions – utilizing a unique nanocomposite coating system developed by research partners at The Timken Company and UA – to solve complex problems associated with friction, wear and corrosion so products perform better, are less vulnerable to environmental conditions, or expend less energy. Read more.