Researchers at ORNL have developed new materials that are extremely water repellant. Known as “superhydrophobic,” these materials emulate the water-repellant properties of some plants found in nature. ORNL is investigating the potential of this novel coating material for high voltage applications. By innovative processing techniques, ORNL is looking to develop coatings for conductor applications to prevent icing situations in winter storms and also for coating bushings as a self-cleaning property and to reduce accelerated corrosive attack in coastal settings.
Video: Self-cleaning property of superhydrophobic materials (MPG 3.24MB)
Left to right: Water on a lotus leaf; Surface microstructure of the lotus leaf; ORNL "Nano-
Cones" on glass.
Contacts
