Laser-Generated Hydrophobic Surfaces Last Longer, Self-Clean

Jan-24-15 By using lasers to create permanently hydrophobic metals, researchers have developed an alternative to chemical coatings that can eventually wear away.

The technique involves using powerful lasers to create a precise pattern of micro- and nanoscale structures on the surface of the metal. The tiny grooves were covered with nanometer features somewhat inspired by the lotus leaf, resulting in a hydrophobic material that also appears black from all angles (increasing light absorption).

In tests, common dust particles placed on the surface of the new material were completely removed with only a dozen drops of water. That means that real-world drops of rain or even fog would be enough to clear the material's surface of debris—rendering it essentially self-cleaning.

More Info about this Invention:

[GIZMAG.COM]
[ROCHESTER.EDU]

---