The team at the Institute for Mechanics of Materials IWM at Freiburgin Germany has reproduced the nano-structured surface of the moth eye on the surface of a polymeric coating.
The team has also reduced the cost of applying the coatings, devising a process to mould the nanostructures. “We have modified conventional injection molding in such a way that the desired nanostructure is imparted to the surface during the process,” said Dr Frank Burmeister, project manager.
Burmeister’s team has also added an ultra-thin polyurethane organic substance to the mold, which coats the film without filling in the gaps to provide protection from abrasion. He believes this coating could be applied to other auto industry components, which would be hard-wearing and easy to clean. (European Plastics News).