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Keywords = antifogging

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14 pages, 4491 KiB  
Communication
Superhydrophilic Antifog Glass and Quartz Induced by Plasma Treatment in Air
by Huixing Zhang, Xiaolong Fang, Xiaowen Qi, Chaoran Sun, Zhenze Zhai, Longze Chen, He Wang, Qiufang Hu, Hongtao Cui and Meiyan Qiu
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(14), 1058; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15141058 - 8 Jul 2025
Viewed by 258
Abstract
Fogging on glass poses a severe challenge in daily life, potentially even becoming life-threatening during driving and surgery; therefore there is a need for antifog surface structures. Fabricating superhydrophilic surfaces has been one of the major solutions to the challenge. Conventional direct thermal [...] Read more.
Fogging on glass poses a severe challenge in daily life, potentially even becoming life-threatening during driving and surgery; therefore there is a need for antifog surface structures. Fabricating superhydrophilic surfaces has been one of the major solutions to the challenge. Conventional direct thermal annealing glass in a furnace at 900 K for 2 h led to superhydrophicity but failed to produce superhydrophilicity on quartz. Meanwhile, it degraded transmission and was low throughput. This study developed a programmed fast plasma treatment of planar soda-lime glass and quartz in air, applied for only a few seconds, that was able to fabricate superhydrophilic surfaces. The process led to a 0° contact angle without sacrificing transmission, a result unreported before. The plasma treatment covered a whole 30 × 30 cm2 substrate in only approximately 5 s, resulting in superhydrophilicity, which has rarely been reported before. This simple yet controllable process has great potential for further scale-up and practical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Chemical Engineering (3rd Edition))
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22 pages, 16513 KiB  
Article
Investigation of Superhydrophobic, Drag-Reducing and Anti-Icing Properties of Swimming Goggles
by Junyi Ding, Haiqi Lin, Xubin Guo, Guangfei Wang, Yangyang Jia and Lu Tang
Coatings 2025, 15(6), 664; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15060664 - 30 May 2025
Viewed by 462
Abstract
Swimming goggles still face numerous challenges in practical use, including deterioration and failure of anti-fog coatings, residual water marks on lens surfaces, and relatively short service life in complex environments. When swimming outdoors during winter, goggles also present an icing problem. To address [...] Read more.
Swimming goggles still face numerous challenges in practical use, including deterioration and failure of anti-fog coatings, residual water marks on lens surfaces, and relatively short service life in complex environments. When swimming outdoors during winter, goggles also present an icing problem. To address these problems and enhance the performance of swimming goggles, this study employs a combination of plasma cleaning and mechanical spraying methods, utilizing HB-139 SiO2 to modify the surface of goggle lenses, thereby fabricating lenses with superhydrophobic properties. The changes in lens surfaces before and after friction and immersion treatments were characterized using three-dimensional profilometry and scanning electron microscopy, further investigating the hydrophobic, drag-reducing, wear-resistant, and anti-icing properties of the lenses. Experimental results demonstrate that SiO2 can enhance the hydrophobic, drag-reducing, durability, and anti-icing performance of the lenses. Under standard conditions, the contact angle of modified samples reached 162.33 ± 3.15°, representing a 48.77 ± 2.15% improvement over original samples. Under friction conditions, modified samples exhibited a 45.86 ± 2.53% increase in contact angle compared to original samples, with Sa values decreasing by 58.64 ± 3.21%. Under immersion conditions, modified samples showed a 54.37 ± 2.44% increase in contact angle relative to original samples. The modified samples demonstrated excellent droplet bouncing performance at temperatures of −10 °C, 10 °C, and 30 °C. De-icing efficiency improved by 14.94 ± 2.37%. Throughout the experimental process, SiO2 demonstrated exceptional hydrophobic, drag-reducing, durability, and anti-icing capabilities. This establishes a robust foundation for the exemplary performance of swimming goggles in both training and competitive contexts. Full article
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17 pages, 10726 KiB  
Article
Superhydrophilic Silica Coatings via a Sequential Dipping Process
by Junbao Xie, Anqi Liang, Qin Lin, Nantian Chen, Abbas Ahmed, Xiaoyan Li, Rongkun Jian, Luyi Sun and Fuchuan Ding
Molecules 2025, 30(8), 1857; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30081857 - 21 Apr 2025
Viewed by 720
Abstract
A superhydrophilic silica coating was prepared using a sequential dipping process involving acid-catalyzed silica, base-catalyzed silica, and 3-(trihydroxysilyl)propanesulfonic acid. Acid-catalyzed and base-catalyzed silica particles with varying diameters were synthesized by hydrolyzing tetraethyl orthosilicate using HCl and NH3·H2O as catalysts, [...] Read more.
A superhydrophilic silica coating was prepared using a sequential dipping process involving acid-catalyzed silica, base-catalyzed silica, and 3-(trihydroxysilyl)propanesulfonic acid. Acid-catalyzed and base-catalyzed silica particles with varying diameters were synthesized by hydrolyzing tetraethyl orthosilicate using HCl and NH3·H2O as catalysts, respectively. 3-(Trihydroxysilyl)propanesulfonic acid was obtained by oxidizing mercaptopropyl trimethoxysilane with hydrogen peroxide under acidic conditions. The resulting silica coating exhibited exceptional superhydrophilicity, with a water static contact angle of 5.0°, and demonstrated underwater superoleophobicity, with a hexadecane underwater contact angle exceeding 140°. Surfaces coated with the superhydrophilic silica coatings showed excellent performances in oil–water separation, anti-protein adsorption, and anti-fogging applications. Full article
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45 pages, 10295 KiB  
Review
Holistic Molecular Design of Ionic Surfaces for Tailored Water Wettability and Technical Applications
by Huiyun Wang, Chongling Cheng and Dayang Wang
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(8), 591; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15080591 - 11 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1201
Abstract
This comprehensive review systematically explores the molecular design and functional applications of nano-smooth hydrophilic ionic polymer surfaces. Beginning with advanced fabrication strategies—including plasma treatment, surface grafting, and layer-by-layer assembly—we critically evaluate their efficacy in eliminating surface irregularities and tailoring wettability. Central to this [...] Read more.
This comprehensive review systematically explores the molecular design and functional applications of nano-smooth hydrophilic ionic polymer surfaces. Beginning with advanced fabrication strategies—including plasma treatment, surface grafting, and layer-by-layer assembly—we critically evaluate their efficacy in eliminating surface irregularities and tailoring wettability. Central to this discussion are the types of ionic groups, molecular configurations, and counterion hydration effects, which collectively govern macroscopic hydrophilicity through electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonding, and molecular reorganization. By bridging molecular-level insights with application-driven design, we highlight breakthroughs in oil–water separation, anti-fogging, anti-icing, and anti-waxing technologies, where precise control over ionic group density, the hydration layer’s stability, and the degree of perfection enable exceptional performance. Case studies demonstrate how zwitterionic architectures, pH-responsive coatings, and biomimetic interfaces address real-world challenges in industrial and biomedical settings. In conclusion, we synthesize the molecular mechanisms governing hydrophilic ionic surfaces and identify key research directions to address future material challenges. This review bridges critical gaps in the current understanding of molecular-level determinants of wettability while providing actionable design principles for engineered hydrophilic surfaces. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Polymer Nanocomposite Films:2nd Edition)
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19 pages, 5380 KiB  
Article
Biocompatibility of Al2O3-Doped Diamond-like Carbon Laparoscope Coatings
by Russell L. Leonard, Anna B. Bull, Fan Xue, Christopher P. Haycook, Sharon K. Gray, Charles W. Bond, Paige E. Bond, Lesa R. Brown, Todd D. Giorgio and Jacqueline A. Johnson
Coatings 2025, 15(4), 437; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15040437 - 7 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 495
Abstract
Laparoscopic lens fogging and contamination pose significant challenges, leading to a reduced surgical field of view. Intraoperative cleaning to address these issues extends the surgical duration and elevates the risk of surgical site infections. The authors propose that a hydrophilic diamond-like carbon (DLC) [...] Read more.
Laparoscopic lens fogging and contamination pose significant challenges, leading to a reduced surgical field of view. Intraoperative cleaning to address these issues extends the surgical duration and elevates the risk of surgical site infections. The authors propose that a hydrophilic diamond-like carbon (DLC) coating would effectively mitigate fogging and fouling, thereby eliminating the requirement for intraoperative cleaning, while the scratch-resistant nature of DLC would provide additional benefits. The present study investigates the efficacy of aluminum oxide (Al2O3) as a dopant in diamond-like carbon (DLC) films for antifogging applications. The authors hypothesized that adding oxygen to the DLC matrix would increase surface energy by increased hydrogen bonding, resulting in a highly hydrophilic coating. Varying dopant concentrations were tested to observe their effects on hydrophilicity, transparency, biocompatibility, and wear properties. The doped films displayed a notable improvement in transparency throughout the visible spectrum. Plasma-cleaned samples demonstrated a substantial reduction in contact angles, achieving values less than 8°. The biocompatibility of these films was analyzed with CellTiter-Glo assays; the films demonstrated statistically similar levels of cell viability when compared to the control media. The absence of adenosine triphosphate released by blood platelets in contact with the DLC coatings suggests in vivo hemocompatibility. These films, characterized by high transparency, biocompatibility, and biostability, could be valuable for biomedical applications necessitating transparent coatings. Full article
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31 pages, 6388 KiB  
Article
Polymers Used in Transparent Face Masks—Characterization, Assessment, and Recommendations for Improvements Including Their Sustainability
by Katie E. Miller, Ann-Carolin Jahn, Brian M. Strohm, Shao M. Demyttenaere, Paul J. Nikolai, Byron D. Behm, Mariam S. Paracha and Massoud J. Miri
Polymers 2025, 17(7), 937; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17070937 - 30 Mar 2025
Viewed by 937
Abstract
By 2050, 700 million people will have hearing loss, requiring rehabilitation services. For about 80% of deaf and hard-hearing individuals, face coverings hinders their ability to lip-read. Also, the normal hearing population experiences issues socializing when wearing face masks. Therefore, there is a [...] Read more.
By 2050, 700 million people will have hearing loss, requiring rehabilitation services. For about 80% of deaf and hard-hearing individuals, face coverings hinders their ability to lip-read. Also, the normal hearing population experiences issues socializing when wearing face masks. Therefore, there is a need to evaluate and further develop transparent face masks. In this work, the properties of polymers used in ten commercial transparent face masks were determined. The chemical composition of the polymers including nose bridges and ear loops was determined by FTIR spectroscopy. The focus of the characterizations was on the polymers in the transparent portion of each face mask. In half of the masks, the transparent portion contained PET, while in the other masks it consisted of PETG, PC, iPP, PVC, or SR (silicone rubber). Most masks had been coated with anti-fog material, and a few with scratch-resistant compounds, as indicated by XRF/EDX, SEM/EDX, and contact angle measurements. Thermal, molecular weight, and mechanical properties were determined by TGA/DSC, SEC, and tensile tests, respectively. To measure optical properties, UV-Vis reflectance and UV-Vis haze were applied. An assessment of the ten masks and recommendations to develop better transparent face masks were made, including improvement of their sustainability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Applications)
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14 pages, 3638 KiB  
Article
Study of Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane-Modified Superhydrophilic Transparent Coating in Antifogging, Antifrost and Self-Cleaning
by Weibiao Zhu, Chengfeng Wu, Jinxin He and Xia Dong
Polymers 2025, 17(5), 599; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17050599 - 24 Feb 2025
Viewed by 728
Abstract
A highly hydrophilic coating with a water contact angle below 10° was developed on a transparent polycarbonate (PC) sheet using a UV-curable process. Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS), modified with poly(ethylene glycol) methacrylate (PEGMA), provided the hydrophilic functionality essential for the coating. Fogging and [...] Read more.
A highly hydrophilic coating with a water contact angle below 10° was developed on a transparent polycarbonate (PC) sheet using a UV-curable process. Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS), modified with poly(ethylene glycol) methacrylate (PEGMA), provided the hydrophilic functionality essential for the coating. Fogging and frost formation on transparent surfaces often hinder visibility and pose challenges in various optical applications. The hydrophilic coating developed in this study demonstrated excellent antifogging and antifrost properties, along with a notable self-cleaning capability. These characteristics make it a promising candidate for applications in transparent optical PC materials, requiring enhanced antifogging, antifrost, and self-cleaning performance. Full article
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16 pages, 5348 KiB  
Article
Research on the Formation Characteristics of Fog and Frost on Optical Windows of Unsealed Equipment Compartments in Aircrafts
by Chun Shen, Yuanyuan Liang, Bo Wei, Chengchun Zhang and Tian Zhao
Energies 2025, 18(2), 437; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18020437 - 20 Jan 2025
Viewed by 922
Abstract
In this study, a numerical method for the formation and dissipation of fog and frost is established using the Eulerian multiphase flow liquid film model. In this approach, the formation and dissipation of fogging and frosting layers is directly determined by the saturation [...] Read more.
In this study, a numerical method for the formation and dissipation of fog and frost is established using the Eulerian multiphase flow liquid film model. In this approach, the formation and dissipation of fogging and frosting layers is directly determined by the saturation of the water vapor surface, and it does not depend on any empirical coefficients. Additionally, Buck’s formula is used to determine the saturation vapor partial pressure, which is applicable for a relatively wide temperature range (−50 °C to 10 °C). This numerical method was validated by the existing experimental data about fogging and frosting, and afterwards the fogging and frosting processes on the optical observation window in the aircraft are further analyzed for three typical working conditions, namely the ground, the fixed-altitude, and the high-altitude descent. The calculation results show that, under the ground working condition, the maximum thickness of the fog layer on the outer surface of the optical window can completely reach the millimeter level within one hour, and the average thickness of the frost layer can reach the sub-millimeter level, which is one order of magnitude smaller compared to under the ground working condition. Under the high-altitude descent working condition, by setting the fixed wall temperature boundary condition on the outer surface of the glass, it is found that in extreme cases, the maximum thickness of the frost layer on the inner wall of the glass can reach the sub-millimeter level within one hour. The research conclusions provide effective basic data support for the subsequent design of anti-fogging and defrosting devices under flight conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heat Transfer Analysis and Optimization in Thermal Energy Storage)
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12 pages, 2426 KiB  
Article
Optimization of Contact Pad Design for Silver Nanowire-Based Transparent Heater to Improve Heating Characteristics
by Seo Bum Chu, Yoohan Ma, Jinwook Jung, Sungjin Jo, Dong Choon Hyun, Jae-Seung Roh, Jongbok Kim and Dongwook Ko
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(21), 1735; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14211735 - 29 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1464
Abstract
Transparent heaters are gaining significant attention for applications such as antifog glass, smart windows, and smart farm greenhouses. A transparent heater basically consists of transparent conducting materials that serve as a heating area and contact pad electrode to apply power. To fabricate a [...] Read more.
Transparent heaters are gaining significant attention for applications such as antifog glass, smart windows, and smart farm greenhouses. A transparent heater basically consists of transparent conducting materials that serve as a heating area and contact pad electrode to apply power. To fabricate a transparent heater, materials with excellent light transmittance and low sheet resistance are required. Among various transparent conducting materials, such as Indium Tin Oxide (ITO), carbon nanotube (CNT), graphene, and silver nanowires (AgNWs), AgNWs are particularly favored due to their good electrical, optical, and mechanical properties. However, in order to improve the heating characteristics of transparent heaters, research is essential not only on improving the properties of transparent conducting materials but also on the design of contact pad electrodes that can uniformly improve current distribution. Here, we explore various shapes of contact pad electrodes for AgNW-based transparent heaters to improve current distribution. Shapes such as line, spot, twisted, and parallel-type contact pad electrodes are designed and investigated to optimize overall heating characteristics. We analyze the heating properties of these transparent heaters with various contact pad electrodes, demonstrating how their specific shape and size affect heating characteristics and uniformity. We also investigate the optimal shape of the contact pad electrode to minimize transmission loss through UV-VIS spectroscopy. As a result, we confirm that the shape of the contact pad electrode was important for simultaneously achieving high heating characteristics of 120 °C, good heating uniformity, and over 80% transparency in an AgNW-based transparent heater. Full article
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20 pages, 11978 KiB  
Article
Superhydrophobic Coating Based on Nano-Silica Modification for Antifog Application of Partition Glass
by Linfei Yu, Kaiyang Ma, Hong Yin, Chenliang Zhou, Wenxiu He, Gewen Yu, Qiang Zhang, Quansheng Liu and Yanxiong Zhao
Coatings 2024, 14(11), 1375; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14111375 - 29 Oct 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2149
Abstract
In this study, vinyl triethoxysilane (VTES), KH-560 and trimethylchlorosilane (TMCS) were used to modify the surface groups of commercially available nano-silica (SiO2, 50 nm), and ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) was used as a film-forming agent. EVA/SiO2, EVA/V-SiO2 [...] Read more.
In this study, vinyl triethoxysilane (VTES), KH-560 and trimethylchlorosilane (TMCS) were used to modify the surface groups of commercially available nano-silica (SiO2, 50 nm), and ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) was used as a film-forming agent. EVA/SiO2, EVA/V-SiO2, EVA/K-SiO2 and EVA/T-SiO2 coatings were prepared, respectively. The coatings were characterized by SEM, FTIR, TG and contact angle. It was found that when the mass percentage of SiO2 was 66 wt%, the hydrophobicity performance of the coating could be significantly improved by silica modification. Compared to the EVA/SiO2, the water contact angle (WCA) of the EVA/V-SiO2, EVA/K-SiO2 and EVA/T-SiO2 were increased by 24.0%, 14.4% and 24.6%, respectively. The FTIR results indicated that VTES, KH-560 and TMCS could effectively replace the -OH groups on the surface of the SiO2 after hydrolysis, resulting in the presence of water transport groups on the SiO2 surface. The TG results certified that TMCS had the highest substitution rate (24.6%) for the -OH groups on the SiO2 surface after the hydrolysis. Additionally, the SEM results indicated that T-SiO2 was more easily dispersed in the EVA film-forming agent, leading to a uniform micro–nano surface rough structure, which aligned with the Cassie–Wenzel model. The durability test had demonstrated that the EVA/T-SiO2 maintained its hydrophobic properties even after enduring 40,000 drops of water and the impact of 200 g of sand. Furthermore, it exhibited excellent resistance to acid corrosion, along with superior self-cleaning properties and an anti-fog performance. It also provided outstanding protection against high temperatures and UV radiation for outdoor applications. Full article
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16 pages, 6028 KiB  
Article
Fabrication and Application of Tannin Double Quaternary Ammonium Salt/Polyvinyl Alcohol as Efficient Sterilization and Preservation Material for Food Packaging
by Laiqi Li, Wenke Zha, Ximei Huang, Yangyi Gong and Sufang Li
Molecules 2024, 29(17), 4264; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29174264 - 9 Sep 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1624
Abstract
Food packaging films play a vital role in preserving and protecting food. The focus has gradually shifted to safety and sustainability in the preparation of functional food packaging materials. In this study, a bisquaternary ammonium salt of tannic acid (BQTA) was synthesized, and [...] Read more.
Food packaging films play a vital role in preserving and protecting food. The focus has gradually shifted to safety and sustainability in the preparation of functional food packaging materials. In this study, a bisquaternary ammonium salt of tannic acid (BQTA) was synthesized, and the bioplastics based on BQTA and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) were created for packaging applications. The impact of BQTA on antibacterial effect, antioxidant capacity, opacity, ultraviolet (UV) protective activity, mechanical strength, thermal stability, and anti-fog of the resultant bioplastics was examined. In vitro antibacterial experiments confirmed that BQTA possesses excellent antimicrobial properties, and only a trace amount addition of BQTA in PVA composite film could inhibit about 100% of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Compared to BQTA/PVA bioplastics with pure PVA, the experiment findings demonstrate that BQTA/PVA bioplastics show strong antioxidant and UV protection action and the performance of fruit preservation. It also revealed a small improvement in thermal stability and tensile strength. The small water contact angle, even at low BQTA concentrations, gave BQTA/PVA bioplastics good anti-fog performance. Based on the findings, bioplastics of BQTA/PVA have the potential to be used to create packaging, and they can be applied as the second (inner) layer of the primary packaging to protect food freshness and nutrition due to their antioxidant activity and biocompatibility. Full article
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13 pages, 8361 KiB  
Communication
Regeneration of Antifog Performance of Laser-Induced Copper-Based Micro-Nano Structured Surfaces by Rapid Thermal Treatment
by Huixing Zhang, Xinyi Xie, Xiaowen Qi, Chengling Liu, Chenrui Wang, Xiaolong Fang, Youfu Wang, Hongtao Cui and Ji Dong
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(17), 1415; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14171415 - 29 Aug 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1332
Abstract
In this investigation, the laser marker ablation technique was employed on Cu-coated glass to fabricate micro-nanostructured antifog glass. The resulting surfaces exhibited a quasi-periodic micron hillock-hollow structure with dispersed nanoparticles distributed throughout, which played a role in the antifog property and superhydrophilicity. However, [...] Read more.
In this investigation, the laser marker ablation technique was employed on Cu-coated glass to fabricate micro-nanostructured antifog glass. The resulting surfaces exhibited a quasi-periodic micron hillock-hollow structure with dispersed nanoparticles distributed throughout, which played a role in the antifog property and superhydrophilicity. However, airborne organic pollutant deposition degraded the superhydrophilicity of ablated glass surfaces and, therefore, their antifog performance, which cannot be circumvented. Conventionally, furnace annealing for at least 1 h was used to decompose the organic pollutants and restore the superhydrophilicity, limiting the throughput and application scenario. Remarkably, the rapid regeneration of this property was achieved through either a 5 min rapid thermal treatment at 400 °C or a 1 s flame treatment. These are interventions that are hitherto unreported. Such short and simple treatment methods underscore the potential of laser-ablated glass for diverse practical applications. Full article
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10 pages, 2300 KiB  
Article
Fish-Mimicking Hydrophilic and Hygroscopic Transparent Films with Long-Lasting Anti-Oil Adhesion and Its Application to PET Bottles
by Jerred Wassgren, Hiroshi Kakiuchida, Tomoya Sato and Atsushi Hozumi
Surfaces 2024, 7(3), 643-652; https://doi.org/10.3390/surfaces7030041 - 20 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1368
Abstract
With the recent ban on the production and use of long-chain perfluorinated compounds, the development of alternative approaches to prepare liquid-repellent surfaces that avoids the use of such compounds has become an urgent issue. We have succeeded in the development of fish-mimicking hydrophilic [...] Read more.
With the recent ban on the production and use of long-chain perfluorinated compounds, the development of alternative approaches to prepare liquid-repellent surfaces that avoids the use of such compounds has become an urgent issue. We have succeeded in the development of fish-mimicking hydrophilic transparent hydrogel-based films with long-lasting anti-oil adhesion properties. Such films could be prepared by simply mixing poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP), nanoclay particles (NCPs), and a waterborne aminosilane (AOS) using an integral blend (IB) method. When submerged in water, these films displayed underwater superoleophobicity (advancing and receding contact angles (CAs) of diiodomethane were ~171°/~163°) with low CA hysteresis (less than 8°), because the hydrophilic nature of the films promoted the formation of a thin layer of adsorbed water on the topmost film surfaces, similar to fish scales. Furthermore, when our films were coated onto the inside of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) bottles and pre-wetted using 80 °C hot water vapors, these film surfaces could effectively repel various oils and were able to maintain their oil-repellent properties for more than 5 weeks. These water-driven, non-perfluorinated transparent hydrogel-based films are expected to increase recycling of PET bottles for oils that are generally incinerated or landfilled. Full article
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17 pages, 8412 KiB  
Article
The Distribution and Pollution Pathway Analysis of Perfluoroalkyl Acids (PFAAs) in a Typical Agricultural Plastic Greenhouse for Cultivated Vegetables
by Yiran Zhou, Mingzhen Wang, Junhong Xin, Yongning Wu and Minglin Wang
Agriculture 2024, 14(8), 1321; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14081321 - 9 Aug 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1318
Abstract
Plastic greenhouses play an important role in vegetable cultivation in China. While evaluations have attributed perfluoroalkyl acid contamination in greenhouse vegetables primarily to irrigation water, the potential contribution from greenhouse plastic films has consistently been overlooked, despite PFAAs’ long-standing use as anti-fogging agents. [...] Read more.
Plastic greenhouses play an important role in vegetable cultivation in China. While evaluations have attributed perfluoroalkyl acid contamination in greenhouse vegetables primarily to irrigation water, the potential contribution from greenhouse plastic films has consistently been overlooked, despite PFAAs’ long-standing use as anti-fogging agents. In this study, a comprehensive assessment of PFAA contamination was conducted in greenhouses at the Shouguang vegetable base in China, based on extensive environmental and crop sample collection, followed by analysis using LC-MS/MS. PFAAs are still used in greenhouse plastic film, and their migration to the surface water mist and the air inside the greenhouse was also observed. Elevated levels of PFAA pollution were found near the corner areas of greenhouses with longer service times, leading to further pollution of the soil and nearby vegetables. This is considered as the primary source which may have been caused by PFAAs migrating with condensation from the plastic film and accumulating for decades. However, polluted irrigation water still remains the dominate source of PFAAs in other areas inside the greenhouse. Based on our analysis, we conclude that PFAAs present in plastic films could be the primary contaminant source for vegetables in specific zones. This underscores the urgent need for heightened vigilance towards environmental pollution within agricultural facilities, which currently represent the most prevalent mode of intensive vegetable cultivation in China. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impact of Plastics on Agriculture)
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13 pages, 5595 KiB  
Article
Engineering of Silane–Pyrrolidone Nano/Microparticles and Anti-Fogging Thin Coatings
by Natalie Mounayer and Shlomo Margel
Polymers 2024, 16(14), 2013; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16142013 - 14 Jul 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1621
Abstract
Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) exhibits remarkable qualities; owing to the strong affinity for water of its pyrrolidone group, which enhances compatibility with aqueous systems, it is effective for stabilizing, binding, or carrying food, drugs, and cosmetics. However, coating the surface of polymeric films with PVP [...] Read more.
Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) exhibits remarkable qualities; owing to the strong affinity for water of its pyrrolidone group, which enhances compatibility with aqueous systems, it is effective for stabilizing, binding, or carrying food, drugs, and cosmetics. However, coating the surface of polymeric films with PVP is not practical, as the coatings dissolve easily in water and ethanol. Poly(silane–pyrrolidone) nano/microparticles were prepared by combining addition polymerization of methacryloxypropyltriethoxysilane and N-vinylpyrrolidone, followed by step-growth Stöber polymerization of the formed silane–pyrrolidone monomer. The silane–pyrrolidone monomeric solution was spread on oxidized polyethylene films with a Mayer rod and polymerized to form siloxane (Si-O-Si) self-cross-linked durable anti-fog thin coatings with pyrrolidone groups exposed on the outer surface. The coatings exhibited similar wetting properties to PVP with significantly greater stability. The particles and coatings were characterized by microscopy, contact angle measurements, and spectroscopy, and tested using hot fog. Excellent anti-fogging activity was found. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Membranes and Films)
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