Chemists from Aalto University have developed a new method of coating surfaces with self-assembled monolayers (SAM) to create ultra-slick surfaces. These SAMs feature a fluid-like surface that dramatically reduces friction, allowing water droplets to glide across with ease. By varying the growth time of the SAMs, the researchers found that both low and high coverage yielded exceptional slipperiness. This research has practical applications such as de-icing, anti-fogging, and self-cleaning surfaces.
Scientists from the University of Colorado, MIT, and NASA Ames Research Center have developed a method to prevent microbial growth and biofilm buildup on surfaces in the International Space Station (ISS). By covering surfaces with a thin layer of nucleic acids, the researchers found that bacterial growth was significantly reduced. The nucleic acids carried a negative electric charge that prevented microbes from sticking to surfaces. The study showed a reduction of about 74% in terrestrial samples and 86% in space station samples. However, longer-duration tests are recommended for future missions to assess the long-term effectiveness of this method.
