Mayaterials, Inc.

Mayaterials was founded in January 2003 to commercialize two technologies licensed from the Laine group in Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Michigan (UM). One technology uses novel silsesquioxane (SQ) [nanosilica] chemistries to produce organic/inorganic nanocomposites especially unique coating systems. The second technology allows direct production of SQs from agricultural byproducts especially rice hull ash (RHA). RHA is produced in the U.S. in 100,000 ton/yr quantities and is a often a waste product. Mayaterials' scientists have created multiple families of novel, green and cost-effective SQ coating systems for multiple applications including corrosion resistance, nanoimprint lithography, and transparent refractive index controlled coatings etc. In particular, we have developed SQ systems that serve as very effective semi-permanent mold release agents for the injection molding industry. They are designed to improve productivity by significantly reducing sticking problems, cycle times, scrap and mold maintenance while improving parts quality in plastic and rubber molding applications. In 2009 Mayaterials Inc. formed a joint venture with Ceres Group, "EXIMO Hard Coatings" to commercialize coatings primarily for one specific application, semi-permanent mold release.