Non-Wettable Surfaces

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This invention relates to surfaces that are highly water-repellent (non-wettable) by utilizing special filament structures attached to the surface. These filaments have controlled dimensions, spacing, elasticity, and a combination of hydrophobic and hydrophilic properties. The unique structure can maintain an air layer, resist wetting and fouling, and reduce friction when submerged in water for extended periods. Methods for manufacturing such surfaces are also described.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Coatings for ship and boat hulls to reduce water resistance and biofouling
• Lining or internal surfaces of pipelines or tubes that carry water or other liquids
• Protective coatings for underwater components or equipment to prevent corrosion and reduce maintenance
• Heat insulation barriers in fluid-contact applications
• Self-cleaning surfaces for outdoor structures, windows, or solar panels
• Advanced textile or clothing fabrics with water-repellent properties

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Reduced friction between the surface and water, improving energy efficiency for ships and pipelines
• Prevents or significantly reduces accumulation of biological matter and corrosion (biofouling and rust), lowering maintenance costs
• Self-cleaning effect due to water-repellency, reducing cleaning effort and frequency
• Durable non-wettability, even under long-term or turbulent submersion conditions
• Potential for improved thermal insulation when used as a barrier
• Can be manufactured using scalable and continuous processes, suitable for large-scale industrial applications

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

An object having a surface, which comprises filaments having a length of 30 to 6000 µm, a ratio of the diameter to the length of between 1:10 and 1:20 and with at least one front are bound to the surface, the distance between two filaments on the surface being such that the ratio of the distance to the length of the filaments is between 1:3 and 1:10, the elasticity of the filaments is between 104 and 1010 N/m2, the surface of the filaments is at least partially hydrophobic such that the contact angle between a filament and water is greater than 100°, characterized in that the filaments are structurally or chemically anisotropic.