The project SEALTEX aims at uptake by PLANET of the most recent technological improvements on micro-/nano-machining technologies to manufacture the first ground-breaking micro-patterned coating-free super-oleophobic gasket.
SEALTEX project meets the objectives of the SMEInst-02 topic: the harvesting in the automotive field of the hitherto untapped potential of cutting edge micro/nano manufacturing technologies by means of an innovative super-oleophobic gasket which has a potential for a wider deployment in very short time. First of all, there is no elastomeric gasket currently on the market able to efficiently prevent deterioration of both durability and shape due to swelling. Secondly, the prototype will be enhanced and validated by means of technical trials in real conditions in the Companies forming our European collaborators network.
The final product SEALTEX will contribute to enhance performances of gaskets improving life of vehicles and reducing the related maintenance costs. We believe that there is an unmet and urgent need in that field, and the final items allow more durability and less detrimental swelling by means of developing the smart biomimetic micro-nano surface textures based on optimized morphologies on the gasket surface as well as combining them with proper counter-fluids on the surface through the uptake of advanced polymeric compounds.
The objectives reached during the Feasibility Study of Phase 1, so the main results of Phase 1 could be listed as follows:
• To start technical tests in order to validate the technology to improve durability and wear resistance issues for corrective gaskets as well as to obtain the required certifications for its commercialization within the already established network of companies, universities and technical laboratories in Europe.
• To perform an analysis of the suitable cutting edge micro-/nano-machining technologies for the manufacturing of the super-oleophobic gasket including the search for the most cost effective and best performance elastomeric compound and industrial processes.
• Potential manufacturers with the capacity for mass manufacturing have been identified and preliminary partnerships has been started.
• A complete Business Plan has been drafted considering the new detailed Market and Industry Analysis.
