SBIR 95-1 SOLICITATION
PROJECT SUMMARY
Proposal Number:
Project Title:
ADVANCED MOLYBDATE CONVERSION COATINGS FOR ALUMINUM AND ITS ALLOYS
Technical Abstract:
This SBIR Phase I project is to demonstrate the feasibility of using a new approach to apply
molybdate (hexavalent molybdenum) conversion coatings to aluminum and its alloys.
Chemical conversion coatings, particularly chromate conversion coatings, have found
widespread military and commercial applications. Of particular interest to NASA would be
the use of chemical conversion coatings on aircraft aluminum alloys and aluminum access
structure and ground support equipment, because of their excellent corrosion resistance and
their ability to serve as an effective base for paint. Conventional baths used to develop this
coating contain chromates (hexavalent chromium), and it is the residual chromates in the
coating that are largely responsible for the high degree of corrosion inhibition observed.
However, chromates are highly toxic and their presence in wastewater effluents is severely
restricted. Thus, it is highly desirable to develop an alternative coating process for
aluminum and its alloys utilizing non-toxic chemicals. The key to the proposed project is
the use of Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs) to promote the oxidation of low valence
molybdenum to hexavalent molybdenum in a post-treatment stage and, hence, enhance the
formation of protective oxide films on aluminum or aluminum alloys. The proposed
procedure is simple and environmentally benign.
Potential Commercial Applications:
The anticipated benefit of this project is a viable alternative to the polluting conventional
chromate conversion process used for a multitude of military and commercial end items.
The molybdate (hexavalent molybdenum) process could eventually replace conventional
chromate conversion coatings for commercial applications which is a multi-million dollar
business. Developed technology will also be beneficial with respect to the environment and
human health.
Name and Address of Offeror:
Lynntech, Inc.
7610 Eastmark Drive, Suite 105
College Station, Texas 77840
Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) &
Small Business Technology Transfer Program (STTR) Programs
Electronic Management System (EMS)
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
The SBIR/STTR EMS site is maintained by Steve
Hu, Hughes STX.
For comments and questions, contact
webmaster@sbir.hq.nasa.gov.
Updated: Feb. 7, 1996