The technology provides a method for manufacturing microstructures that alter the surface properties of various materials.
URBANA, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Hoowaki, LLC and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (Illinois) have entered into a license agreement under which Hoowaki will utilize innovative technology developed in the laboratory of Dr. William P. King. The technology provides a method for manufacturing microstructures that alter the surface properties of various materials.
“Working with the University of Illinois has been a very pleasant experience. We are proud and delighted to have such world-class technology behind our company; Hoowaki and University of Illinois have a great partnership.”
Ralph Hulseman, the president of Hoowaki said, “Working with the University of Illinois has been a very pleasant experience. We are proud and delighted to have such world-class technology behind our company; Hoowaki and University of Illinois have a great partnership.”
The microstructure manufacturing technology Hoowaki has licensed from Illinois allows for the surface structure of man-made products to be molded in ways that replicate the micro to nanometer-sized details found in nature. Surfaces of metals, ceramics and polymers can be altered to affect appearance, color, friction, adhesion, lubrication, drag and flow control.
One potential application of imitating nature is found in creating super-hydrophobic materials. These products are self-cleaning, reduce ice and mud buildup and can be utilized to increase performance.
The broad potential for microstructure manufacturing technology has allowed Hoowaki to diversify the products and services they offer. They produce tools to make industrial tooling surfaces and offer custom surface design, surface engineering, and licensing of patterns. Essentially, where there is a surface, there’s the potential for a product.
Though other methods have been developed to meet the same end, Hoowaki’s microstructure technology will allow customers to achieve many of these desired surface effects, while differing in important ways from competitive alternatives. Laser engraving, micro machining, chemical etching and coating methods are expensive, potentially environmentally unfriendly and without range. Hoowaki’s technology can cost effectively mold structures on curved or flat metal, polymer, or ceramic surfaces.
About Hoowaki
Hoowaki is a start-up company founded in 2008 to focus on surface transformation technology for clients in industries ranging from aerospace to biomedical to consumer goods. Hoowaki’s innovative surface engineering has resulted in a Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) grant from the National Science Foundation.
About the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is a world-class research institution boasting a respected faculty, high national rankings, and state-of-the art facilities. The University’s accomplishments include 22 Nobel Laureates among its faculty and alumni and such revolutionary innovations as the Web browser, new plant varieties and self-healing polymer.
