Piezochromism
OliKrom expertise
OliKrom has acquired a unique expertise in the field of piezochromic materials, which change color when subjected to pressure, shock or deformation. In general, the control of molecular phenomena by macroscopic mechanical stimuli (pressure) is a scientific field that remains largely unexplored.
The main materials reported to have mechanochromic properties are organic compounds, organometallic complexes, polymers and polymer composites. In general, the observation of mechanochromy is associated with changes in the chemical or physical structure of materials. Among the phenomena we can cite: a molecular reorganization within a solid, the modification of molecular structures containing an open/closed form, a cyclization, a process of isomerization double bond E / Z.
Depending on the industrial specifications, we will select organic piezochrome pigments, hybrid or inorganic derivatives. Each of these families has advantages and disadvantages. We know, for example, that the pitfalls frequently encountered are the gap between industrial expectations and the maturity of piezochrome technology.
OliKrom develops piezochromic coatings and materials based on 2 patented technologies:
Reversible piezochromism
Change of color following the application of pressure, and return to the initial color when the stress returns to its original level. Possibility to adjust the color change and the percentage of deformation, elongation.
Irreversible Piezochromism
Definitive color change above a defined pressure threshold (of a shock). Possibility to adapt the threshold (energy) of triggering, the color of the initial/final state.
Industrial production of piezochromic materials
Our added value
Based on our experience, each industrial application is unique. We know that the pigment/matrix couple is crucial to control the piezochromic property and its stability.
Therefore, to ensure industrial production with total control of quality and reproducibility, we deliver only the final formulation in the form of: piezochromic inks (UV, solvent) adapted to printing techniques (screen printing, pad printing, etc.) and/or piezochromic paints (acrylic, polyurethane, etc.).
OliKrom accompanies each request “from need to product” by involving our experts from the Materials research and development unit, the process department and the production plant:
The Materials Department,
scientific excellence
This research and development unit develops the piezochromic pigment adapted to your specifications: pressure threshold, reversible/irreversible character, switching speed, choice of colors, etc.
The Process Department,
the expertise of the formulation
This process unit is in charge of integrating the pigment into the desired matrix (ink, paint, etc.) while preserving the targeted piezochromic property with regard to your technical, economic and regulatory constraints.
Industrial production,
from the kilogram to the ton
This unit ensures the industrial production of piezochrome inks and piezochrome paints in compliance with OliKrom Inside quality requirements (ISO 9001 certification) the security of supplies and compliance with deadlines
Do you have a project? Need to produce a piezochrome ink or a piezochrome paint?
Send us a message, our experts will get back to you within 24 hours!
OliKrom custom-designs and produces piezochromic coatings and materials for the industry, that change color under pressure. Pressure-sensitive paints can serve for non-destructive material testing and impact detection. Non-destructive testing (NDT) by visual detection indicated by a color change can be used in various industrial sectors, including: petroleum industry (pipelines, tubes, bars, welds, tanks); shipbuilding industry (hull control); aeronautics (beams, aircraft wings, numerous engine parts, landing gear, etc.); aerospace and military; automotive industry (control of engine blocks); the steel industry; boiler making and piping manufacturing; the energy industry: nuclear reactors, boilers, piping, turbines, etc. (maintenance of facilities); Railways in manufacturing and maintenance, particularly for safety devices (axles, wheels, bogies); food inspection; civil engineering and building,…