Shrinkage of polymer coatings on wood veneers in aircraft structures:understanding the causes of the problem and possible solution

A common problem in aircraft cabinetry is deterioration of high gloss finishes, giving an “orange-peel
look”, which is attributed to some kind of dimensional instability. This can be related to the veneer, the
varnish, their interactions and how they evolve over time and in different environmental conditions
(temperature and humidity) to which the aircraft cabinetry are exposed during their manufacturing and
usage. This problem is costly to Bombardier Aerospace, who must frequently rework the cabinetry
surfaces. 3M Canada is interested in providing solutions. Therefore, in this project, which involves
both polymer chemists and wood scientists, our goal is to understand the underlying reasons for the
problem, by doing systematic experiments using a large variety of appropriate and complementary
scientific techniques. With the information gained, rational solutions can be proposed and tested.

Faculty Supervisor:

Bernard Riedl;Roger Hernandez Pena;Robert Prud'homme;Christian Pellerin

Student:

Partner:

Bombardier Aerospace Inc (Montreal, QC);3M Canada (London, ON);Consortium de recherche et d'innovation en aérospatiale au Québec

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing; Transportation and warehousing

University:

Université de Montréal; Université Laval

Program: