In this study, we introduce novel functional coatings, which have named “Self-lubricating organogels (SLUGs)” , showing beyond biological surface wettability. SLUGs were prepared based on a cross-linking reaction of 2 types of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) with a Pt catalyst, and several organic guest fluids. When compatibility between the low-surface-tension guest fluids and PDMS matrixes is decreased beyond a certain critical point, the guest liquids begin to gradually leach out to the outermost SLUG surfaces. By taking advantage of the syneresis behavior of these guest fluids, we can successfully achieve various dynamic/durable surface functionalities, similar or beyond those of living surfaces. For example, viscous emulsions can flow on the surface of our SLUG more freely than those on a non-syneretic organogel surface (images A and B). For anti-icing/snow applications, we can tune the syneresis temperature to achieve reversible thermo-responsive properties. In this case, the syneresis gradually begins as the temperature is cooled below 0 °C, and the syneresis fluids returns back into SLUGs again by heating it to room temperature. Thanks to this smart thermo-responsive property, an ice-pillar or snow on SLUGs below 0 °C can easily slide off without any external force (image C). Moreover, we can successfully demonstrate regeneration of superhydrophobicity using n-octadecyltrichlorosilane or proryltrichlorosilane as an active guest fluid (images D and E). Some of the samples can survive even after 24 hours air-plasma/172 nm-vacuum UV light exposure. Our SLUGs undoubtedly show great potential for applications in dynamic, multifunctional, and self-healing coatings and have possibilities beyond those of biological surfaces.

Self-lubricating organogels: SLUGs showing beyond biological surface wettability

254th National Meeting (2017)

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