TECHNOLOGY LICENSING OPPORTUNITY: SonicCoat

xcite it across a broad frequency band and record its resonant response, first as a baseline on the bare substrate and then after each successive catalyst layer. Comparing each response against the baseline reveals how the resonance peaks migrate and change in amplitude, and those movements track the amount of platinum catalyst deposited. Testing has shown peaks moving roughly in proportion to added catalyst content, which demonstrates enough sensitivity to distinguish layer-by-layer differences in loading. Because the measurement is non-destructive and adds little time to the coating cycle, the approach fits directly into continuous production rather than diverting samples for laboratory analysis by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy or X-ray fluorescence, the after-the-fact methods relied on today. Catalyst loading is a primary driver of both cost and performance in electrochemical devices, so verified, consistent deposition translates into steadier power output, longer service life and less wasted precious metal. The same principle extends to any process where a thin coating must be monitored on a substrate, and the technique suits scale-up because it neither caps throughput nor limits the number of parts that can be checked. Advantages Inspects coatings in place while the line keeps moving, with no need to stop and pull samples Fully non-destructive, so parts are never cut, scraped or exposed to X-rays Reads catalyst buildup layer by layer for tight, repeatable quality control Relies on simple, low-cost ultrasonic hardware instead of large laboratory instruments Protects costly materials such as platinum by catching over-coating or under-coating early Scales to high-volume production without limiting output Market Applications Fuel Cell and Electrolyzer Manufacturing Battery Manufacturing Solar Energy Semiconductor Fabrication Protective Coatings TRL 4 U.S. Patent pending LA-UR-26-28073 LANL Tech Partnerships: Unlock the Innovative Potential Los Alamos National Laboratory offers a wide range of cutting-edge technologies and capabilities that may provide your company with a competitive edge in the market and unlock the innovative potential that can enhance, refine, and revolutionize your products. LANLs licensing program focuses on moving inventions developed by our researchers to commercial innovations. Patented and patent pending inventions and copyrighted software are available to existing and start-up companies through exclusive and non-exclusive licensing agreements. For specific discussions, please contact licensing@lanl.gov. Note: This is not a call for external services for the development of this technology. https://www.lanl.gov/engage/collaboration/feynman-center/partner-with-us/licensing-technology m.lanl.gov/tech-search