Silicone-Infused Antismudge Nanocoatings

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Surface Science

Background:

• Polyurethane (PU) coatings with dewetting properties are crucial for various applications.
• Existing NP-GLIDE coatings utilize grafted liquid ingredients for dewetting.
• Further enhancement of surface properties, particularly water repellency, is desirable.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop novel silicone-infused NP-GLIDE (SINP-GLIDE) polyurethane coatings.
• To investigate the impact of silicone oil (SO) type and amount on coating properties.
• To evaluate the optical clarity and water sliding performance of SINP-GLIDE coatings.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of NP-GLIDE precursors from triisocyanate, polyol (P1), and P1-g-PDMS graft copolymer.
• Cocasting NP-GLIDE precursors with free silicone oil (SO) or SO mixtures to form SINP-GLIDE coatings.
• Characterization of optical clarity, contact angles, and sliding angles of various liquids on the coatings.

Main Results:

• SINP-GLIDE coatings were successfully prepared with varying amounts and types of infused SO.
• Optical clarity was influenced by SO content and coating formation conditions.
• Contact and sliding angle data demonstrated tunable surface wettability and effective dewetting.
• Stable water sliding performance was confirmed under simulated rain conditions.

Conclusions:

• Novel SINP-GLIDE PU coatings exhibit tunable surface properties and excellent water sliding performance.
• The infusion of silicone oil significantly enhances the dewetting capabilities of NP-GLIDE coatings.
• These findings facilitate the practical application of SINP-GLIDE coatings in areas requiring stable water repellency.