Grant: Engage Grants for universities

This research proposal describes an initial partnership between the University of Victoria and RT Prime_x000D_ technologies for the development of water repellent (super hydrophobic) films. A general problem with_x000D_ different types of surfaces in different areas, including textiles, medical, automotives and military, is related to_x000D_ their wettability. Ideally, there are cases where it would be highly desirable to tailor the surface properties such_x000D_ that it can not accumulate water. For instance, a car window that does not accumulate water would provide_x000D_ much better visibility under rain and fog. A super hydrophobic vest can improve buoyancy or keep a soldier dry_x000D_ under adverse weather situations. There are several approaches to coat surfaces that impart hydrophobicity._x000D_ However, a general technology that can be directly applied in different types of surfaces is not available. Here_x000D_ we suggest to use nanoparticles to develop a super hydrophobic liquid that can be applied on several different_x000D_ situations. The goal, within the time frame of the ENGAGE program, will be mostly to test different synthetic_x000D_ routes for nanoparticle fabrication and functionalization. Successful systems will be directly transferred to RT_x000D_ Prime that will evaluate their commercialization potential and further develop the technology.