Structured self-cleaning surfaces and method of forming same
AssigneeFerro Corporation
InventorsEnos A. Axtell, III, George E. Sakoske, Daniel R. Swiler, Michael Hensel, Martin Baumann, David J. Matalka, Gary L. Nuccetelli
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Abstract
The present invention involves growing diatoms on a surface for the purpose of forming nanoscale-sized siliceous structures on the surface. In accordance with the invention, diatom films are grown on various substrates, which are then fired to remove all organic material from the diatoms and produce a surface coated with intricate, nanoscale-sized structures. The nanoscale-sized structured surface is subsequently treated with a hydrophobic film-forming agent to form a structured self-cleaning surface.
Claims18
A method of forming a structured surface on a substrate comprising:
- exposing the substrate to an aqueous medium comprising living diatoms for a period of time sufficient to allow the living diatoms to grow on the surface of the substrate;
- and
- firing the substrate to burn out organic material within the diatoms and form the structured surface, wherein the structure surface comprises a layer of siliceous diatomaceous frustules disposed on the substrate.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.