TECHNOLOGY LICENSING OPPORTUNITY: Real-Time Polymer Cure Monitoring System

Summary

This invention from scientists at Los Alamos National Laboratory provides a new way to monitor how materials like epoxies, adhesives and coatings harden and gain strength during manufacturing. It combines two measurement techniques to track, at the same time and without damaging the material, both the chemical changes occurring as the material cures and the resulting increase in strength and stiffness. By linking these changes in real time, this Polymer Cure Monitoring System technology gives manufacturers and product developers a clearer understanding of when a material has properly cured and is ready for use. This process can improve quality control, reduce production errors, speed up product development and lower the risk of failure in high-value applications such as aerospace, automotive, electronics and structural bonding. How it Works: The Real-Time Polymer Cure Monitoring System is based on an integrated measurement approach that combines complementary sensing methods within a single analytical platform to observe material changes as they occur. One sensing modality tracks chemical evolution at the molecular level, while the other evaluates corresponding changes in physical performance characteristics. By collecting and aligning these data streams in real time, the system establishes a direct relationship between composition and material behavior throughout processing. The approach is designed to operate under controlled conditions without disrupting the material, enabling continuous monitoring of transformation from initial state to final form.

Key Advantages

- Simultaneous measurement of chemical and mechanical changes - Real-time monitoring during material processing - Non-destructive, in-place evaluation - Direct correlation between composition and performance - Improved process control and consistency - Applicable across a range of polymer and composite systems

Market Applications

- Aerospace & Defense - Automotive & Transportation - Electronics & Electrical - Energy & Industrial Equipment - Construction & Infrastructure - Advanced Manufacturing & Materials Development

Development Status

TRL 3

US Provisional Patent Pending

LA-UR-26-21226

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. LANL's 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