STTR Phase II: Low-Cost Processing of Nanoporous, Super-Hydrophilic, Multifunctional Coatings for Glass and Plastic Surfaces

This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) seeks to develop three significant permanent, self-cleaning, anti-fog coatings for plastic and glass surfaces. Fogging of the windows of a car is a hazard most drivers have experienced at one time or another. Fogging results in poor visibility, and unsafe driving or flying conditions. Durable, anti-fog coatings that provide a permanent solution to the problem have potential to satisfy critical needs, especially for the growing number of aging baby boomers. The broader impact/commercial potential of the coatings has been tested independently; these coatings will be fine-tuned for applications in aircraft cockpit windows, motorcycle helmet visors, and in related personal protective gear. These multifunctional hard coatings can be used as abrasion resistant, anti-fog and anti-reflection coatings on both glass and plastic surfaces. The coatings are made from inexpensive raw materials and simple processing techniques like dip or spray coating suited to forming conformal coatings.