2009 R&D 100 Winner
PATCH—Power Activated Technology for Conductor Healing—is an applied aqueous solution or an inner insulation layer that enables powered wires to self-heal conductors exposed by damaged insulation. Developed by the Univ. of Dayton Research Institute and Pinnacle System, LLC, Beavercreek, Ohio, the PATCH solution incorporate a non-toxic [polyvinyl alcohol (PVAL)], aqueous solution that can be misted into inaccessible areas or sprayed/brushed onto accessible areas of interest. When the solution droplets come into contact with electrical power, the solution reacts with the exposed metal surface to produce an adherent, water-insoluble film to repair the damaged insulation. The PATCH solutions were developed for both copper and plated copper surfaces and perform independent of the insulation damage mechanism and composition or the power characteristics (AC or DC ranging from 9 to 400 V). The PATCH solution process utilizes the electrochemical reactions involving water, the exposed copper/plated copper conductor, and a water-soluble polymer (PVAL) to produce a protective, insulating layer independent of the original insulation composition.
Technology
Self-healing wire repair technology
Developers
Univ. of Dayton Research Institute
Pinnacle System, LLC
