This is example to illustrate a typical R&D process flow. It often starts with a question or problem. A question from a production SME could be if we could help to develop their own anti-reflection coating on plastic mirrors and lenses. The problem they have is that all coatings supplied by vendors on their optics have a poor adhesion and can not stand a thermal shock.

Phase one:
Before we start building a prototype coating recipe we will execute a short technology scan to map out the possible coating routes. Furthermore we extract the expertise and experience of the customer to gain as much as information as possible at the start.

Phase two:
If it is feasible to solve the coating issues with a commercially interesting route we will discuss this route and decide in close cooperation with the customer if it is wise to design and construct a prototype coating.

Phase three:
To test the coating several experiments will be carried out on lab scale. One of our strong points is the ability to quickly test a coating or prototype and proof the principle. Questions such as: Is the designed coating also anti-reflective, does it stand the thermal shock tests, how are the adhesive properties are all answered in this phase.

Phase four:
If the former tests are successful and promising we can assist developing a business plan and help to scale-up the coating facility such that it can be used in a production facility. Furthermore we can keep assisting in the R&D of new coating recipes and optimizing the anti-reflective coating recipe.