# Lotus Leaf Self-Cleaning Surface By TechnoGadget | Published 2007-01-19 | Science Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lotus-leaf-self-cleaning-surface References: [gizmag](http://www.gizmag.com/go/6729/) The [Applied Laser Technology Group](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cyanocement) of the [University of Twente](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aluminum-tubes) is working in progress to mimic the natural self cleaning surface of the [Lotus](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sustainable-antiaging-solution) Leaf that can be applied for many applications and products by using an ultra fast femtosecond laser. According to Gizmag “The secret of the Lotus leaf can be found in numerous tiny pillars with a wax layer on top. Water drops are lifted by these pillars, get into a spherical shape and can simply not cover the surface. Dirt gets no chance to stick to the surface via water. The spherical drops roll off and take dirt particles with them.” ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 0.6/10 - Popularity: 1% | Activity: 9% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Science](https://www.trendhunter.com/science) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Self-cleaning Surfaces:** The development of technologies that mimic natural self-cleaning surfaces like the lotus leaf presents opportunities for creating low-maintenance products in various industries. - **Ultra Fast Femtosecond Laser:** Advancements in ultra fast femtosecond laser technology offer disruptive innovation opportunities for creating precise and efficient surface modification processes. - **Water Repellent Coatings:** The study of water-repellent coatings inspired by the lotus leaf opens up new possibilities for industries seeking to create liquid-repellent products and surfaces. ### Who This Affects Most - **Automotive:** The automotive industry can explore the use of lotus leaf-inspired self-cleaning surfaces to improve the durability and cleanliness of vehicles, reducing the need for regular cleaning. - **Consumer Electronics:** Incorporating self-cleaning surfaces using ultra fast femtosecond laser technology in consumer electronic devices could enhance durability and reduce the accumulation of dirt and fingerprints. - **Medical Devices:** The application of water-repellent coatings on medical devices can improve sterility and hygiene, reducing the risk of infections and facilitating easier cleaning processes. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Lotus-Inspired Floating Water Purifiers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/floatis.md) - [Grime-Removing Machine Cleaners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/surface-coating.md) - [Automated Cleaning Units](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/laser-photonics.md) - [Non-Fogging Nano-Thin Gold Layers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/eth-zurich.md) - [Self-Cleaning Touchscreen Dashboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/selfcleaning-system.md) - [Aroma Diffuser Lamps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-lotus-lamp.md) - [Self-Cleaning Glass Bottles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/self-cleaning-glass.md) - [Sustainable Anti-Aging Solutions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sustainable-antiaging-solution.md) - [Lotus Plant-Inspired Skyscrapers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/one-future.md)