Ford Accelerates Nanotechnology Work into Lightweight Metals

TECHNOLOGY FOCUSFord Accelerates Nanotechnology Work into Lightweight Metals

EVANSTON, IL (March 2, 2007) - Collaborative research activities among Ford Motor Co., Boeing Inc. and Northwestern University have created another way for the automaker to actively participate in and assess the evolving field of nanotechnology, as well as other technologies.

Nanotechnology is the science of manipulating materials at the atomic or molecular level - the size of a billionth of an inch. It is often referred to as a general-purpose technology because it has the potential to impact all industries and areas of society. Its use in pharmaceuticals, electronics and optics is rapidly developing. Nanomaterials, for example, are already being used in sunblock and cosmetics. Nanotechnology is not a product but a set of methods, tools and materials to make better-performing products.

Nano at Ford Long-term potential nanotechnology benefits to Ford include lightweight metals and plastics, nanopaints offering greater aesthetics and enhanced coatings for improved performance and safety.

Like a traditional atom-probe tomograph (APT), Northwestern University's Local Electrode Atom Probe (LEAP) tomograph achieves true 3-D atomic-scale analysis by using a high electric field to remove individual atoms from material surfaces and a position-sensitive detector to record information that reveals the atom's position and identity. However, the incorporation of a local electrode eliminates many of the performance limitations of traditional APTs. The LEAP tomograph also analyzes significantly larger volumes (typically 50 x 50 x 100 nm) in much less time - literally within minutes.
(Photo: Northwestern University)

Ford is using one of the most advanced laboratory devices in North America to accelerate its nanotechnology research into lighter weight metals and plastics with greater strength, with a view toward improving the safety and fuel economy in its vehicles. The device, called the Local Electrode Atom Probe (LEAP), is housed at Northwestern University and is now one of only four such tools in North America.

This new laboratory tool cuts in half the amount of time it takes to analyze the molecular makeup of metals and plastics and determine ways to tailor these materials to make lighter weight and more durable parts. Its use in the automotive industry holds the most promise; by 2015, experts predict nanomaterials will reach 70 percent usage in automotive applications.

For example, Ford has been active since the 1970s in exhaust catalysis and emission controls, which are nano-based systems. Catalysts use nanoscale precious metals to increase the surface area of the metal, reducing costs and making these systems more efficient.

In addition, the automaker is developing nanofluids, which involves dispersing nanoscale particles into vehicle liquids, such as coolants and engine oil, lubricants and transmission fluids. Ford scientists found that sprinkling nanoparticles into these liquids reduces friction and increases thermal conductivity - both of which allow the liquid to operate at lower temperatures.

A nanotechnology alliance Northwestern, Ford and Boeing researchers have been collaborating for more than a decade in nanotechnology, developing structural materials such as metals and plastic composites that use nanoparticles as fillers that reduce weight and increase strength. These materials can be applied to make engine block aluminum castings stronger and better performing. Paints and glass that block the sun's infrared radiation and actually clean themselves of dirt and grime are being researched. Ford and Boeing also have committed to a technology exchange program, which includes providing access to each other's talented people, technology and process know-how to benefit their products. For Northwestern University, the alliance is an opportunity to develop even closer working relationships. Having embedded personnel leads to better understanding and identification of each partner's needs and expertise, the university says, and provides opportunities for technology sharing that benefit everyone. Northwestern has been one of the early leaders in the field of nanoscience, and is the home of one of the first nanotechnology centers in the country. The study of nanomaterials and technology transcends many departments and schools within the university, ranging from engineering and chemistry to biology and medicine. The learning experiences of students who will be involved with faculty in the new research project are unique opportunities that prepare them for their future roles.(Sources: Ford, Northwestern University)