New Australian-developed water-repellent glass technology has the potential to improve vehicle safety and reduce building cleaning costs.
Researchers at Perth’s Curtin University said the new non-toxic process used ultrasonic sound waves to alter the surface of glass, making it either hydrophobic (water-resistant) or electrically charged.
Lead researcher Associate Professor Nadim Darwish said an ultrasound triggered a chemical reaction that permanently altered the surface of glass.
“The sound waves create microscopic bubbles in a diazonium salt solution, which then collapse rapidly creating tiny bursts of heat and pressure,” Associate Professor Darwish said.
“This triggers a reaction that forms a stable, organic layer to the glass, making it either permanently water-repellent or positively charged, depending on the type of diazonium salt used.
“Unlike conventional coatings, that wear off over time, our method creates a chemical bond at the molecular level, making it far more durable and environmentally friendly.”
Study co-author Tiexin Li said the ability to modify glass surfaces in a simple and sustainable way had far-reaching implications across multiple industries.
“Glass is used everywhere—from cars and buildings to industrial filters—but its natural tendency to attract water limits its performance,” Dr Li said.
“Unlike traditional coatings this film won’t peel off, dissolve in water or deteriorate so it’s ideal for real-world applications where reliability and durability are key.
“This could mean clearer windshields in heavy rain, self-cleaning skyscraper windows and solar panels that stay dust-free.”
Read the full study: Sonochemical Functionalization of Glass.
