Scientists have obtained the first glimpse of miniscule air bubbles that keep water from wetting a super non-stick surface. The non-stick material was created by “pock-marking” a smooth material with cavities measuring mere billionths of a meter. The results explain how these nanocavities trap tiny bubbles which render the surface extremely water repellent
The research could lead to a new class of non-stick materials for a range of applications, including improved-efficiency power plants, speedier boats, and surfaces that are resistant to contamination by germs.
Non-stick surfaces are usually created by applying coatings, such as Teflon, to smooth surfaces. But recently, by taking the lead from observations in nature, notably the lotus leaf and some varieties of insects, scientists have realized that a bit of texture can help.
[Source]
Chapter: Home and Living :: 10 May 2010
