"Superomniphobic" Nanoscale Coating Repels Almost Any Liquid 104
cylonlover writes "A team of engineering researchers at the University of Michigan has developed a nanoscale coating that causes almost all liquids to bounce off surfaces treated with it. Creating a surface structure that is least 95 percent air, the new 'superomniphobic' coating is claimed to repel the broadest range of liquids of any material in its class, opening up the possibility of super stain-resistant clothing, drag-reducing waterproof paints for ship hulls, breathable garments that provide protection from harmful chemicals, and touchscreens resistant to fingerprint smudges."
What uses come to mind? (Score:5, Interesting)
I know that lawn mowers, should you leave gas in them for a while, will gain a 'coating' that gums up the fuel needle in the carburetor. Cleaning out the carb is a true pain and costs a lot to get a mechanic to clean/replace. Would this kind of coating over that small and delicate part help ease/eliminate sticking?
How that compare to the non-stick bottle from MIT? (Score:5, Interesting)
This "Superomniphobic" Nanoscale Coating Repels Almost Any Liquid, but on the other hand, MIT's also nanoscale Liquiglide non-stick coating allows even sticky stuffs such as ketchup to flow out of the bottle completely.
http://www.designboom.com/design/liquidglide-ketchup-bottle-by-mit-researchers/ [designboom.com]
I must admit that I'm not familiar with both of these technological development, so... Can someone familiar with them explain to us the similarity / compatibility of both developments?
Thanks !