New fluorine-free low surface energy surfactants and surfaces

Modification and control of surface properties, such as surface tension γ at air-liquid (AL) interfaces and surface energy at solid-liquid (SL) surfaces, are at the heart of colloid and interface science. Certain applications require low or very low surface tensions γ_AL and surface energies γ_SL, for example and not limited to: microemulsification, aqueous foams for fire-fighting, hydrophobic, superhydrophobic and oleophobic surfaces to control spreading and wetting of aqueous and oily liquids on solids. In many cases low surface tensions/energies can only be obtained by employing perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) as surfactant or polymer additives or surface treatments. Although fluorocarbons and polymers have been employed for over 80 years, with many industrial and commercial benefits, it is now recognized that PFAS are very hazardous to the environment and health. Hence, in the coming years it will be necessary to phase out PFAS entirely, however, at present, there are very few viable alternatives available. This article outlines the chemical principles for designing F-free low surface energy (LSE) additives, and also covers the most recent advances in the quest for non-fluorinated surfactants and polymeric surface coatings.