Permanent anti-fog coating developed
Posted: Fri Mar 18, 2011 4:34 pm
Giz Mag
The actual anti-fog coating itself is composed of polyvinyl alcohol, which is a hydrophilic compound that causes the individual droplets of condensation to disperse. Before it can go on to a surface, however, a base of four successive layers of silicon molecules are first applied via an atmospheric plasma process. These layers bond to one another, but also allow the alcohol to bond to them, ensuring the durability and hardness of the combined coating.
While there are already various anti-fogging substances on the market, some of which even do claim to be permanent, the Laval researchers state that these won't stand up to repeated washings, and need to be periodically reapplied.
The university is currently in negotiations with a major eyewear manufacturer, which is reportedly interested in licensing the technology.
