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Nanolok Technology
For High Barrier Applications
What is it?
 Pioneered by InMat® Inc., Nanolok™ coatings start as aqueous
suspensions of nanodispersed silicates in a polymer matrix. They are
environmentally friendly, and can be applied via standard coating
processes to rubber substrate. Nanolok™ technology provides the highest
gas barrier of any polymeric coating available on the market today.
InMat’s Air D-Fense™ 2000 coating using Nanolok™ technology in a butyl
rubber matrix is used commercially in Wilson’s Double Core Tennis Balls –
the Official Ball of the Davis Cup.
These tennis balls last twice as long because they retain air longer. A
thin layer of Nanolok™ on the inner rubber
lining of these balls increases air retention compared to the uncoated
rubber. The same technology, in a polyester matrix can be used in
packaging application to significantly increase oxygen barrier.
What are the benefits?
- Reduced material costs
- Reduced weight
- Thin coating highly cost effective vs. butyl rubber
- Selectable matrix for optimal secondary properties
- Compatible with rubber processing conditions
- Flexibility
- Recyclability
- Environmentally friendly
How does it work?
The Nanolok™ aqueous suspension is applied via roll (or dip, or spray)
coating process onto a rubber substrate or other substrate. Once dry, a
thin coating (10-30 microns) of Nanolok™ forms on the substrate.
This coating contains hundreds of nanodispersed platelets per
micron of coating thickness. These platelets form a tortuous path for
molecules such as oxygen and aromatics, dramatically increasing the
barrier properties of the substrate. Nanolok™ coatings form an extremely
efficient barrier which can be 100’s of times less permeable than the
uncoated substrate.
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