|
ramé-hart
Newsletter
September 2023 |
| Benefits of Superhydrophobicity |
|
The creation of Lotusan paint by German inventor Wilhelm Barthlott marked a significant milestone that unlocked a diverse range of innovative applications through the principle of biomimicry. Lotusan paint's ability to replicate the non-wetting characteristics of the lotus leaf opened the door to various novel uses. By harnessing the lotus effect, this paint has paved the way for surfaces to mimic the self-cleaning and water-repellent properties of the lotus leaf, leading to advancements in areas such as architecture, materials science, and product design. Superhydrophobicity offers a range of benefits that have practical implications across various industries and applications. Some of these benefits include: 1. Self-Cleaning Surfaces: Superhydrophobic surfaces naturally repel water, causing droplets to pick up dirt and debris as they roll off. This property reduces the need for manual cleaning, saving time, labor, and cleaning agents. 2. Reduced Corrosion and Wear: Water and moisture are known contributors to corrosion and wear on surfaces. Superhydrophobic coatings can create a barrier that prevents water from reaching the underlying material, thus reducing corrosion and extending the lifespan of surfaces and equipment. 3. Anti-Icing and De-Icing: Superhydrophobic surfaces can hinder the formation of ice and frost by preventing water from adhering to the surface. This property is particularly valuable for aircraft, vehicles, and infrastructure in cold climates, reducing the need for de-icing treatments. 4. Improved Efficiency in Fluid Flow: Super-hydrophobic surfaces can minimize drag by allowing fluids to slide off more easily. This can lead to increased efficiency in applications such as pipelines, marine vessels, and even swimsuits for athletes. 5. Water-Repellent Textiles: Fabrics treated with superhydrophobic coatings can resist water absorption, keeping wearers dry in wet conditions. This property is desirable in outdoor clothing, sportswear, and rainwear. 6. Hygiene and Healthcare: Superhydrophobic coatings can prevent liquids, including bodily fluids and contaminants, from adhering to medical instruments, reducing the risk of infection and improving sterilization processes. 7. Enhanced Optical and Electronic Devices: Water-repellent coatings can protect sensitive optical and electronic components from moisture, preventing damage and maintaining performance. 8. Eco-Friendly Solutions: Self-cleaning surfaces reduce the need for chemical cleaning agents, contributing to environmental sustainability by minimizing the release of harmful substances into the environment. 9. Less Maintenance: Superhydrophobic coatings can lower the frequency of maintenance activities for various surfaces, leading to cost savings and reduced disruption. 10. Improved Aesthetics: Surfaces that repel water often maintain a cleaner appearance, enhancing the visual appeal of buildings, vehicles, and other objects. These benefits collectively demonstrate the versatility and potential of superhydrophobicity to revolutionize various industries by introducing efficiency, sustainability, and improved functionality.
Upcoming technologies are poised to
capitalize on the remarkable attributes offered by artificially
engineered superhydrophobic surfaces. These surfaces, inspired by
nature's design, exhibit the ability to repel water with exceptional
efficiency. This property holds immense potential for a wide array of
applications, spanning from advanced materials and coatings to
innovative medical devices and beyond. As researchers continue to refine
the fabrication techniques and optimize the performance of these
surfaces, the integration of man-made superhydrophobicity is anticipated
to contribute significantly to improved functionality, enhanced
sustainability, and groundbreaking solutions across various fields. |
| ramé-hart is your Partner in Contact Angle Goniometry |
|
Established in 1961, ramé-hart has been at
the forefront of contact angle goniometer technology since shortly after
its inception. The company introduced the world's first production
contact angle goniometer not long after its founding. These manual
microscope-based instruments gained widespread adoption, with thousands
sold, and hundreds still actively used today. The 1990s marked a pivotal
transition as ramé-hart began offering instruments equipped with cameras
and software, a significant advancement in accuracy. This led to the
discontinuation of the microscope-based models around two decades ago,
as software-controlled cameras proved far more precise and easier to
use. To accommodate evolving needs, the company introduced imaging
upgrade kits for customers who invested in the original Model 100
instruments, ensuring the modernization and longevity of their
equipment. Similarly, those using older camera-based models have
benefited from various imaging upgrade kits offered by ramé-hart. With
an unwavering commitment to innovation and enhancement, ramé-hart
instrument co. consistently augments its DROPimage software with new
features, valuing customer input. The company's dedication to preserving
investments and delivering enduring value makes ramé-hart a reliable
choice for those seeking long-term, dependable solutions in the realm of
contact angle measurement technology. |
|
Regards,
Carl Clegg |
|
|
