Roll-to-roll coating

CeSMA uses Roll-to-Roll (R2R) application for high-throughput processes based on a “Click-and Coat” system from Coatema. Beside of various thermal drying station, the material is applied either by slot-die coating or by rotary screen printing. The installation in a clean room environment of ISO class 8 guarantees high-precision material coatings for sensitive and thin layers.

The R2R machine is used for the application of dielectric elastomers (DE) or piezopolymer sensors based on PVDF copolymers. Registration and alignment tools for multi-layer applications are implemented to address resolution of less than 200 µm.

As substrates, PET or paper is preferred due to the low costs. Web width is about 40 cm and printing speed is 2 m/s, when registration is needed, or higer. The use of a doubled edge control ensures very precise substrate alignment during coating and winding/unwinding.

CeSMA provides services to print functional designs on films and paper using material of the customer but also assists when material is to be formulated or novel smart materials are to be applied.