Transparent anti-fogging coating with self-healing property

Hydrophilic anti-fogging coating has become a research hotspot due to its good anti-fogging performance and easy preparation. In a new work, a zwitterionic anti-fogging coating with anti-fouling and self-healing properties was prepared by (Methacryloyloxy)ethyldimethyl-(3-sulfopropyl) (SBMA) and Itaconic acid (IA).

Improved antifogging performance

The antifogging performance of the coating has been improved due to -COOH from IA. A high light transmittance (over 95%) could be observed after anti-fogging tests. The reseachers used amide bonds to connect the coating to the glass slide, which greatly improved the water resistance and durability. The coated glass could maintain anti-fogging property after being immersed in water for 7 days or stored for over 200 days. Results showed that the anti-fogging coating has a good self-healing function and oil stain resistance. The contact angle of the coated glass slide is 8.17°, and shows a good super hydrophilicity. According the the developers, the new anti-fogging coating provides great potential for applications in medical, food industry, transportation etc.

The study has been published in Progress in Organic Coatings, Volume 165, April 2022.