Repellent ORMOCER^® coatings

Sustainable ORMOCER^® coatings enable repellent properties and effortless cleaning

The Fraunhofer ISC is developing effective coatings with hydrophobic (water-repellent) and oleophobic (oil-repellent) ORMOCER^® coatings. These coatings can also be produced without PFAS, while still exhibiting excellent repellent properties. In contrast to the highly persistent molecular structure of PFAS, ORMOCER^® surfaces are distinguished by an inorganic-organic hybrid polymer structure that is, in principle, biodegradable. The functional additives, e.g., silicone-like or long-chain hydrocarbons, are chemically bonded to the matrix. In addition to their repellent properties, ORMOCER^® coatings are also characterized by high hardness and resistance to wear, high temperatures, various media, and environmental influences.

ORMOCER^® is a new, hybrid material that represents a class of its own, contributing to the careful use of resources and sustainable materials management. Its special feature is that it can also combine omniphobic properties in one layer.

The video demonstrates that water rolls off a PFAS-free coating effectively. In addition to water, diiodomethane and C16 (hexadecane) have already been successfully tested, and our ORMOCER^® coating has also proven effective in repelling coffee, cola, ketchup, and alcohol/ethanol.

This will contribute to the development of more resource-efficient cleaning processes, particularly in industrial plants.

Self-cleaning ORMOCER^® surfaces for hydrophobic and oleophobic applications

Repellent ORMOCER^® surfaces ensure a high contact angle with liquids so that they roll off and do not get wet. The hydrophobic and oleophobic properties are achieved through alkyl chains, added particles (lotus effect), fluoroalkyl compounds or silicone-like additives in the ORMOCER^® layers. The goal is to provide the substrate with a self-cleaning surface that can be used, for example, in the sanitary sector for faucets, in interior design for light switches or door handles, and in the fitness industry for sports equipment.