Functional coatings with exceptional surface properties, such as liquid-repellency and low-friction/adhesion, have been commonly prepared by combining textured surfaces with long-chain perfluorinated compounds (LPFCs). However, the chemical and physical effects of LPFCs on human health and environment rise concern and once physically and chemically damaged, these artificial surfaces permanently lose their surface properties.

Atsushi Hozumi, Chihiro Urata, and colleagues, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Japan, have developed self-lubricating organogels (SLUGs) that can make airplane wings and other surfaces so slippery that ice easily slides off without any additional force. The SLUGs were prepared by hydrosilylation of 2 types of silicones and several guest organic liquids. The slick substance is secreted from a film on the wing’s surface as temperatures drop below freezing. It retreats back into the film as temperatures rise. The gel and the liquid-repellent substance are held in a matrix of silicone resin.

The researchers see potential applications also for antifouling coatings in packaging, paints, ship bottoms, metal molds and more. Currently, they focus on increasing the transparency of the SLUG’s coating.

• Presented at the 251st National Meeting & Exposition of the American Chemical Society (ACS) in San Diego, CA, USA 
• Self-lubricating organogels (SLUGs) with exceptional syneresis-induced anti-sticking properties against viscous emulsions and ices,
  Chihiro Urata, Gary J. Dunderdale, Matt W. Englanda, Atsushi Hozumi,
  J. Mater. Chem. A 2015, 3(24).
  DOI: 10.1039/C5TA02690C

• More on the ACS meeting in San Diego, CA, USA