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Robust Superhydrophobic Coating for Aluminum Surfaces

Technology Benefits

Simple dip coat process, followed by rinsing and drying; no heat treatment requiredCoating with tunable nanoporosity and thickness, based on bath concentration and temperatureRobust chemically bonded coating, compared to spray-on polymer coatings which are prone to abrasive and thermal degradationCoating not affected by acidic and basic conditions and UV exposureAbsence  of  water  on  cooling  surfaces,  decreases  impedance  to  air  flow,  thus decreasing power usage of heat exchangers and air conditioners

Technology Application

Heat exchanger finsAir-conditioning systemsDe-icing on huge structures (e.g. aerospace, buildings, wind turbines)

Detailed Technology Description

None

Others

Additional Technologies by these Inventors

• Selective Transfer Of A Thin Pattern From Layered Material Using A Patterned Handle
• Computed Axial Lithography (CAL) For 3D Additive Manufacturing

Tech ID/UC Case

25094/2015-182-0

Related Cases

2015-182-0

*Abstract

This robust superhydrophobic coating is coated on aluminum surfaces by simple, low-cost chemical method. This coating demonstrates excellent hydrophobicity and enhances droplet shedding. By repelling water, it inhibits bacterial growth in heat exchanger fins surfaces. At the same time, with enhanced condensation, it greatly enhances overall heat transfer in air-side heat exchangers.

*Applications

• Heat exchanger fins
• Air-conditioning systems
• De-icing on huge structures (e.g. aerospace, buildings, wind turbines)

*Principal Investigator

Name: Lance Robert Brockway

Department:

Name: Hayden Kingsley Taylor

Department:

Country/Region

USA