Method of Analyzing a Material

We are developing novel technologies that make use of the electric discharge (gaseous plasma) that is created in the air gap between two metal electrodes, one of which is covered with an insulator (a dielectric). This unusual type of electric discharge is known as a Dielectric Barrier Discharge (DBD).

We developed a proprietary method of testing dielectric materials using the DBD.
The discharge is created in air gap between the device’ electrode and the tested dielectric covering a conductive substrate, which becomes the second electrode. The properties of the discharge change as the properties of the tested material vary.
By observing the changes in the properties of DBD, we can detect micro-sized defects in the dielectric, e.g. pinholes, as well as variations in its thickness, composition, structure, adhesion, underlying corrosion, contamination, and the like. It thus provides a novel and simple way of detecting flaws in protective coatings, both man-made and natural.

None of the current techniques of Non-Destructive Testing offer the combined advantages of the DBDI method. Existing techniques are either inaccurate and potentially destructive, or complex and costly. Advantages of our method include:

 Detection of micro-sized defects
 Immediate, easy to interpret results
 Inherent scalability, featuring a detachable probe of a customisable design
 Portable, battery powered
 Safe (no X-rays, powered electrode is safe to apply to a living tissue)
 Simple to use and inexpensive

The technology could be a low-cost solution in markets where the existing technology is capital intensive and high tech. The device could be used as an inexpensive, first step diagnostic tool, or as a definitive method of analysis. The options include mobile, handheld devices, multimeter plug-ins, bench-top instruments, and units fully integrated with OEM production lines.

The method could be used for Quality Assurance of paints, rubbers, Teflon, ceramics, anodization, etc., used in Automotive, Oil & Gas, Aviation, Marine, Medical Instrumentation and other industries.

Several generations of working prototypes have been constructed and successfully tested in-house, as well as at the Australian National University. We demonstrated a proof of concept for the detection of defects, including underlying corrosion, in coatings on metal plates.

Patent in the US (# 9638664) for the method has been issued.

Attached files:
DBDI technology.ppsx

Patents:
US 9,638,664 issued 2017-05-02   [MORE INFO]

Type of Offer: Sale

Asking Price: US$10,000



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