The NaSuKoMi research project’s goal is to develop durable water-repellent surfaces, and it’s doing so by taking an innovative approach: The properties of components subjected to high tribological stresses can be significantly improved by integrating microcapsules in plastic compounds. BECHEM is working on both microcapsules and the development of superhydrophobic surfaces.
When water doesn’t stand a chance—how superhydrophobic surfaces can make our day-to-day lives easier
We’ve all experienced iced-over car doors, stiff roller shutters in winter, or frozen exterior parts. Everyday life just becomes more challenging in freezing weather, but the good news is there’s an intelligent solution for this: superhydrophobic surfaces (SHP). These extremely water-repellent coatings can stop ice from forming at all—and this isn’t only interesting for drivers.
SHP surfaces are currently most used where liquids should cause the least possible resistance, such as in the shipbuilding industry or in piping systems. But they also have a permanent place in the automotive industry, as ice can form between the metal frame and the moving parts of the locking systems when the temperatures fall below zero, making it difficult or near impossible to open doors. SHP coatings could help resolve this issue by actively preventing the formation of ice.
“Our goal is to integrate hydrophobicity directly into the material.”
Durability as a challenge
As promising as this technology sounds, one question still remains unanswered: its durability. Mechanical stress, friction, and weathering cause coatings such as these to wear out quickly and to become less effective. This represents a major challenge, especially when it comes to moving parts such as door locks or hinges. What might a solution look like?
A research team with clever ideas
A solution of this type is being actively explored by a research team within the scope of the NaSuKoMi project. The plastics institute SKZ, the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymer Research (IAP), 4D Concepts, and BECHEM have come together in this project to develop a new, durable superhydrophobic surfacethat is both effective in the short and long term. Together, we’re collaborating on an innovative concept that integrates tiny microcapsules into plastics and antifriction coatings. Filled with an SHP substance, these microcapsules work similar to a self-healing effect: they are capable of repeatedly bringing new water-repellent layers to the surface when required. “We aim to integrate hydrophobicity directly into the material,”says Dr. Patrick Degen, Head of Innovation Management at BECHEM. “As a result, the effect is sustained for a long time, without having to repeat the surface treatment. This saves both time and money while also helping to protect the environment.”
Questions? Your BECHEM expert:
Dr. Patrick Degen
Head of Innovation Management
From car doors to aircraft wings
The project kicked off in fall 2024 and will last three years. One thing is certain already: The self-renewing technology has the potential to be used far beyond the automotive sector. Possible application areas for the new SHP surfaces are found wherever mechanically stressed components are exposed to weather—in roller shutters, external blinds, wind turbines, or even on aircraft wings. If the results obtained thus far hold up in real-world application, this will increase the chances of not only getting into cars more easily in the future, but also of enjoying more reliable and durable technical systems.