Next-Generation Aluminum Alloys and Surface Treatment Processes: From Ski Manufacturing to Aerospace Applications

Ferreol Technologies is a materials innovation company spun off from Ferreol Skis, Canada's largest alpine ski manufacturer. Ferreol Technologies develops advanced solutions for industries where strength, weight reduction, and environmental impact are critical considerations. This presentation covers two core technology platforms. The first focuses on proprietary aluminum-scandium alloys engineered for demanding structural applications. Among the alloy systems under development, an Al-Zn-Mg-Cu-Sc alloy in both T6 and T7 tempers is presented and benchmarked against established aerospace references such as 7075 and 7050. These alloys are produced across a broad range of product forms, from sheets as thin as 0.4 mm to plates exceeding 50 mm in thickness. Key properties including tensile strength, elongation, stress-heat response, and stress corrosion cracking resistance will be compared against these industry-standard alloys.

The second platform addresses surface treatment processes for coil-to-coil treatment or individual parts, developed as eco-friendly alternatives to conventional anodization and chromic conversion coatings. A key feature of these treatments is the formation of a chemically stabilized surface layer that significantly extends the bonding and painting window, offering a major operational advantage in manufacturing environments. Performance in bonding and painting applications will be presented alongside an assessment of environmental and human health advantages over conventional treatments. Together, these technologies are currently being deployed with customers across aerospace, transportation, defense, and sports industries, where weight reduction, mechanical performance, and sustainability goals increasingly drive material selection decisions.