Washington: Researchers, led by an Indian American, have edged closer to stain-proof, spill-proof clothing, protective garments and other products that shrug off virtually every liquid, from blood and ketchup to acids, thanks to `superomniphobic` surfaces.
Anish Tuteja, assistant professor of material science and engineering, University of Michigan, who did his B.E. in chemical engineering from Panjab University, India, in 2001 and colleagues point out that scientists have previously reported "omniphobic" surfaces that prevent different liquids from spreading on them by forming into beads.
But typically liquids such as some oils and alcohols can stick to those surfaces.
Further, scientists have mostly focused on making surfaces that repel only one of the two families of liquids, according to a Michigan statement.
Tuteja`s team set out to do the same for other class of liquids, which include blood, curd, gravy, various polymer solutions and a range of other liquids.
They say that virtually all liquids easily roll off and bounce on the new surfaces, which they have developed, ideal for protecting fabrics from the effects of chemicals, the Journal of the American Chemical Society reports.
The scientists conclude that the surfaces will ensure stain-free clothing, spill-resistant, breathable protective wear, surfaces that shrug off microbes like bacteria and corrosion-resistant coatings.
IANS
