Radiation Resistant Hybrid Lotus Effect Photoelectrocatalytic Self-Cleaning Anti-Contamination Coatings

This project will develop radiation resistant hybrid Lotus Effect photoelectrocatalytic self-cleaning anti-contamination coatings for application to Lunar Operations. The coatings will be demonstrated to operate in galactic cosmic ray (GCR) and solar event proton (SEP) environments. The coatings will have low surface energy to significantly reduce Van der Waals forces (superhydrophobicity), which also reduce contaminant adhesion and will integrate a biocide stoichiometric and photoelectrocatalytic component which has been successfully demonstrated against a range of biological pathogens and toxic chemicals. The Lotus-effect sheds particles, such as dust and spores, by reducing the surface energy and the amount of surface area needed for attachment by utilizing a nano-textured structure to achieve its anti-contamination and self-cleaning properties thereby minimizing contaminant accumulation on surfaces. Dust mitigation coatings on various surfaces will be developed for > 99% removal of initial dust contaminant compared to conventional materials, without damage to the surface being cleaned. The coatings utilize a unique approach for biocide and chemical neutralization and will simplify decontamination procedures by neutralizing microorganisms or harmful chemicals on surfaces of structures and equipment in low gravity, as well as in extraterrestrial environments, preventing potential catastrophic contamination.