Researchers at the University of Zurich have developed a way to mimic the Lotus-Effect and make a hyper-waterproof fabric. A jacket made with this technology and submerged for two months comes out as dry as the day it was submerged.
The fabric is a polyester base coated with silicone nanofibers.
According to Lead Researcher Stefan Seeger, "The combination of the hydrophobic surface chemistry and the nanostructure of the coating results in the super-hydrophobic effect... The water comes to rest on the top of the nanofilaments like a fakir sitting on a bed of nails."
This material lends itself to self-cleaning materials, low drag swim suits and anything else where keeping dry or trapping micro-pockets of air might be of use.
Hyper Water Repellent Fabrics
The Lotus Effect
Trend Themes
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Hyper-waterproof Fabrics — Opportunity for the development of innovative waterproof materials for various applications.
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Self-cleaning Materials — Potential for the creation of self-cleaning surfaces in various industries.
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Low Drag Swim Suits — Disruptive innovation opportunity for the swimwear industry with the development of low drag fabrics.
Industry Implications
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Textile Industry — Innovation potential for manufacturers to create hyper-waterproof fabrics.
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Cleaning Industry — Opportunity to develop self-cleaning materials for cleaning products and surfaces.
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Sports Apparel Industry — Potential for swimwear companies to create low drag swim suits using advanced fabric technology.