Chromium-Free Compositions and Processes

The U.S. Navy seeks to commercialize through patent licensing a chromium-free process and composition for post-treating anodized aluminum and metallic coatings and for pre-treatment of aluminum. The Naval Air Station at Patuxent River, MD, has developed a novel process and composition for improving the durability and corrosion resistance of metals and metal coatings. This process is chromium-free and also contains no Ni, V, Co or lanthanides. Formulation of this chromium-free process (CFP) is a single solution that can be applied by immersion, spray or wipe application. The formulation allows for short dwell times and requires no cures. It is easy to mix and handle, and has a pH of 3-4. The Navy is developing applications of CFP for post-treatment of anodized aluminum, posttreatment of sacrificial metallic coatings on steel or other metal substrates, and for the pretreatment of aluminum substrates prior to painting. Companies may participate in these or related development efforts under a full CRADA, or obtain samples for test and evaluation through a limited purpose CRADA. Published patent application numbers 20070095436, 20070099022 and 20070095437 are available for licensing. Benefits: Anti-corrosion and adhesive properties Environmentally friendly / non-carcinogenic Easy to make, use, and apply Cost competitive with hex and trivalent chromium solutions