Revolutionary Water-Repellent Surface Shatters Friction Norms

Researchers at Aalto University have developed the most water-repellent surface ever created, challenging existing ideas about friction. The surface, known as a self-assembled monolayer (SAM), is assembled at the molecular level and exhibits liquid-like properties. It has the potential to revolutionize various industries, including de-icing techniques, maritime technologies, space exploration, and cookware. The researchers found that water flows freely between the SAM molecules at low coverage, sliding off the surface, while at high coverage, the water stays on top and slides off easily. The discovery opens up numerous possibilities for applications such as heat transfer, anti-fogging, microfluidics, and self-cleaning surfaces. The team is working on improving the durability of the ultra-thin layers for practical use.