Researchers from the Fraunhofer Polymer Surfaces Alliance POLO (Fraunhofer POLO) have developed highly efficient barrier films suitable for roll-to-roll production and that are now being produced on a pilot plant scale. The scientists have developed a sandwich structure of inorganic ceramic layers, which embed the patented hybrid coating ORMOCER®. The system has a very low water permeability of 2 x 10-4 g/m2/d, as measured in a calcium test at 38°C and 90% r.h..
Dr. Sabine Amberg-Schwab, spokesperson of the Fraunhofer POLO, points out: »The unique properties of the hybrid ORMOCER® layer boost the barrier properties of the inorganic barrier layers. This makes the barrier films suitable for demanding technical applications, such as for flexible electronic devices.«

The processing technology is a big step towards efficient large-area production of flexible electronic devices such as flexible solar cells, flexible OLEDs, and LCD-displays. The Fraunhofer POLO can reproducibly apply the barrier film to various polymeric materials in a roll-to-roll process on a pilot plant scale. Dr. Nicolas Schiller, head of the »Flexible Products« department stresses: »The availability of barrier films on a pilot scale is essential for developers of flexible electronic components. Moreover, the Fraunhofer POLO can customize films with further functionalities such as transparent conducting electrodes. We invite customers to govern the route for further developments in cooperation with Fraunhofer POLO.« Dr. Sabine Amberg-Schwab adds: »Our barrier material has superior performance, and the films are flexible and easy to use. We offer customers our expertise and assistance on film application and handling operations. We also assist customers in the selection of adhesives and in the integration of our material into their production processes.«

In a nutshell, the ultra-barrier films are very versatile. Their properties can be adapted as required by the device manufacturer and various polymeric materials can act as suitable substrates. In addition, the barrier film can be produced as needed and independently of the production of the device, and can then be laminated onto the substrate.