Link: Technology Review: Water-Repelling Metals
Numerous materials have been given superhydrophobic or water-repelling properties based on the research of Wilhelm Barthlott and Christoph Neinhuis on the Lotus Effect. Researchers at GE Global Research Center previously applied the concept to Lexan, a plastic that is naturally hydrophilic (attracts water). They have now demonstrated the Lotus Effect on metals.
GE has not published their work but has described two processes. The article implies that some sort of water-repellent chemical coating is required, applied to the metal either before or after the surface is textured.
This research opens up applications of the Lotus Effect in harsh environments, such as reducing the need to de-ice airplane components and inhibiting moisture and other contaminant buildup on the blades of gas and steam turbines.
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