On the 8 and 9 September 2021, INOCON is presenting their capabilities and involvement in the SUSTAINair project at an in-person open house hosted by their affiliate company SBI International.
About INOCON
INOCON Technologie GmbH (Austria) investigates plasma technology and its application in automated, robot-assisted in-line processes. INOCON´s patented technology for atmospheric plasma processing (APP) enables surface modification of polymers (e.g. activation,…) , functional micro- and nano-coatings on sensitive, 3D-shaped materials, such as plastics, AM-parts, glass, ceramics, wood or paper. Alongside typical applications of plasma coatings (conductive tracks, low-friction, thermal barrier, wear resistant or biocidal coatings,…), APP can be used for the generation of ZnO-nanowires (ZnO-NWs) for sensor applications.
INOCON´s role in SUSTAINair
In SUSTAINair project, INOCON generates ZnO-NWs with APPD technology (Atmospheric Plasma Powder Deposition), which get integrated into an electro-spun polymer fiber matrix subsequently. The resulting piezoelectric, flexible mats, which are produced by project partner Joanneum Research (JR) and tested by Johannes Kepler University (JKU), are basic elements for structural health monitoring (SHM). The sensors are integrated in all structural materials (i.e. metals, FRPs) in contrast to today´s typical bonding of sensors on a structure’s surface.
Towards real-time, onboard damage diagnosis systems (SHM)
Large-scale, flexible zinc-oxide piezoelectric transducers for the application on structural aircraft components are one aspect in the development of the the novel Structural Health Monitoring (SHM).
New technologies developed in SUSTAINair aim to reduce aircraft downtimes with the help of real-time, onboard damage diagnosis systems. These systems could ultimately replace costly scheduled maintenance events with a condition-based maintenance approach, which ensures airworthiness and making aircraft maintenance more economical. Additionally, monitoring manufacturing processes during aircraft component production with embedded sensors may reduce manufacturing costs.
More about the novel SHM development here
SBI Open House
SBI is developing plasma welding solutions and plasma-based additive manufacturing, including electronics , software, and chassis. Inocon Technologie GmbH is the majority owner alongside with voestalpine Böhler Welding Group GmbH and Michael Kitzmantel.
The SBI Open House in Ziersdorf in Austria will offer live product presentations, SBI forum with invited speakers, and exhibitions of R&D activities in additive manufacturing.