Empa - Materials Science and Technology
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Reel-to-reel plasma processing of fibers, fabrics, nonwovens, membranes etc. for etching and deposition processes.
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Plasma functionalization
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Base technology for smart textiles, medical textiles, active and passive sensors, textile wires and cables (also coax), composites, braids and ropes etc.
- Reel-to-reel plasma processing of fibers, fabrics, nonwovens, membranes etc. for etching and deposition processes. Available pilot-scale reactors are used to provide sample materials and support transfer and up-scaling to industrial processes incl. cost analysis.
- Plasma functionalization includes:
- hydrophilic/hydrophobic (permanent)
- electrically conductive (also passivated)
- optical reflection and interference colors
- diffusion barrier, e.g. for drug release
- adhesion promotion, e.g. for fiber-reinforced composites
- catalytic and antibacterial activity
- etc. - Base technology for smart textiles, medical textiles, active and passive sensors, textile wires and cables (also coax), composites, braids and ropes etc.
Empa, the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, is a non-profit research institute available for international collaborations. Empa's laboratory for Advanced Fibers in St.Gallen is dedicated to novel fibers.
Today, the development of advanced fibers is gaining new significance as a motor for industrial innovation, particularly in composite materials and high-tech or medical applications. It is our goal to contribute to this research field to support a safer and more sustainable living environment.