- Ceramic materials
- Coatings
- Composites
- Metal alloys
- Plastic polymers
- Biological materials
Plastics have been advanced by increasing their stiffness, toughness, flame retardation, lubrication, colour, and recyclabilty, while also reducing their weight at the same time.
Further, costs are reduced through an integrated manufacturing process which includes the raw materials to the end user.
Ceramics research has been focused on eliminating the problem of brittleness, as scientists work to toughen ceramics with fibres, crystals and surface coatings. The Canadian Ceramics Society is based in Toronto, and provides information exchange for those involved in research, development, manufacturing and the application of ceramic materials.
Queens Universities Center for Manufacturing of Advanced Ceramics and Nanomaterials has been focusing on some promising projects such as:
- piezoelectric and electrorestrictive ceramics, actuators, and smart structures
- SOFC and ceramics with high electrical conductivity
- Advanced ceramics for microwave packaging
- A new class of silicon nitride structural ceramics
- Thin films and semiconductor ceramics
Composites are created when glass and carbon fibres are embedded in a plastic, metal or ceramic matrix and may be arranged in short, random fibres, or for more strength, long parallel fibres. These fibres replace bulkier materials, saving weight and energy, while reducing the number of parts used and lowering assembly costs.
Nanotechnology is a future manufacturing technology that will make products lighter, stronger, cleaner, less expensive and more precise. Ontario's goals for nanotechnology include:
- Materials: the creation of new more durable, lighter and easier to use and recycle materials.
- Electronics: development of smaller components allowing for the design of more powerful computers.
- Energy: increases in the potential of solar power generation.
- Health and nanobiotechnologies: advancement in the prevention, diagnostics, and treatment of patients.
Over 130 organizations are currently involved in nanotechnology development in Canada.
Source: Canadian NanoBusiness Alliance (4/2006)
The ORF promotes research excellence by increasing the R&D capacity of Ontario universities and research institutions. $500 million has been provided by Ontario in over 10 years through ORF and its predecessor fund.
Between 1998-2003, $44.6 million was allocated to 13 advanced materials projects.
For more information please see the Ministry of Research & Innovation
