Multifunctional coating: antifog, antifrost, and self-cleaning

The development of eco-friendly and high-performance coatings has gained significant importance in the coatings industry. A recent article in the Journal of Coatings Technology and Research discusses the synthesis and characteristics of a novel UV-curable coating based on sorbitol. This coating not only offers antifog and antifrost properties but also boasts self-cleaning and oil-repellent capabilities.

In this study, polyurethane coatings were developed using sorbitol, isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), and polyethylene glycol (PEG200). The synthesized resins were thoroughly characterized to determine their chemical properties. The coatings were applied to silane-treated glass and cured under UV light, showing promising hydrophilic properties.

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The hydrophilic properties of the coating were investigated through water contact angle measurements. The coating exhibited antifog properties with a contact angle below 33°, while antifrost effects were observed with a contact angle of less than 7°. Moreover, the excellent hydrophilic properties allowed for effective self-cleaning, as black oil stains could be easily rinsed off under water flow. This innovative coating presents promising prospects for applications where visibility and cleanliness are of paramount importance.

Source: Journal of Coatings Technology and Research, Volume 21, pages 955–967, (2024)