REFERENCE: CLIENT #TBF We are searching for novel, environmentally cleaner solutions for refractory aggregate binding technologies used for moulds and cores in the production of metal castings. Typically, silica sand is mixed with a small quantity (1-3%) of organic binder material, then pressed into a mould and set by some external physical (e.g. heat) or chemical (e.g. gaseous catalyst / hardener) influence. Molten metal is then poured into and around the resulting product to provide the desired shape of the metal part being cast. The bonded sand is a disposable product which is broken down (e.g. heat causing collapsing or later dissolved) after a single casting, although the sand after treatment is often recycled for future use. Due to the chemical nature of the current binders most commonly used, each of these stages produces environmentally damaging emissions, as well as raising various health and safety issues. There is an urgent requirement therefore, for a robust, environmentally acceptable aggregate / binder system. Such a system must provide: No more than 5% binder by weight (preferably of the order 1 to 2%) Bench life of mixed aggregate & binder to be at least several hours Rapid (i.e. less than 1 minute) curing into a rigid shape with immediate strength when required (exposure to trigger mechanism such as gaseous catalyst) No deterioration (preferably at least a 50% increase) in strength on ambient storage for several days Easy breakdown and removal after casting (preferably via the heat from the casting: ca 750ºC for aluminium, 1400ºC for ferrous) Easy recycling / reclamation of used aggregate / binder either as a unit sand or within other sand systems (hence should be chemically benign) No adverse chemical reaction between the aggregate / binder and the metal during casting process It is anticipated that the desired solution will be found outside of the foundry industry and will probably be an inorganic technology, although more acceptable organic binders or hybrid mixes of inorganic and organic will be considered if demonstrably effective. Natural binder systems with some aromatic compounds are also potentially of interest. With the right solution, our client is able to quickly access global markets. Please note the following systems are currently known and not of interest: Organic:- Amine-cured polyurethane, SO2 cured furan or epoxy, ester-cured alkaline phenolic, CO2 cured alkaline phenolic, heat cured urea-formaldehyde / phenol formaldehyde / furan (by furan is meant polymers or blends with furfuryl alcohol). Inorganic:- CO2 cured sodium silicate, microwave cured sodium silicate, heat cured sodium polyphosphates, heat cured magnesium sulphate, machinable salt (sodium chloride) blocks. We are willing to explore any reasonable commercial arrangements, including licensing in of proprietary or innovative products, systems or technologies, strategic alliances or partnering arrangements and outright purchase. Our client is also open to funding a research programme given a promising but early-stage technology. Technology Transfer · International Business Research · International Business Opportunities Technologies Sought · Offshore Services · Additional Services Home · Contact BCI · Search Database Copyright © 1999, Business Consultants International