Scientists at Rochester University uncovered a new use of power laser beams. The new method can easily convert regular metal surfaces into super-hydrophobic.
The incredible waterproof treatment can make metal so hydrophobic that it bounce water drops back. Scientists employed laser technique to cut a nanostructure on the metal.
Chunlei Guo, professor of optics and physics at UR states that scientist altered the nature of the metal surface so that it can easily repel water.
The new laser technique will allow metal surface to absorbs light but repel water. Hence, Scientists can effortlessly apply the new technique on countless things such as non-sticking cooking equipments. It can also be used as a low maintenance device for light collector technologies like sensors and solar power devices. Developing countries can utilize it for rain water collection in dry climate regions.
Guo says devices created with this kind of material can would be relatively powerful and easy to maintain. Unlike coated surface, the new material would not rub off after sometime.
The Bill & Melissa Gates Foundation and Air Force Office of Scientific Research have provided funds for the research. They gave a large amount of $620,000 and $750,000 respectively.
The chief aim of Bill Gates is to find better ways of sanitation for developing countries. The majority of the third world countries complain about the shortage of water supply.
The research is printed in detail in the Journal of Applied Physics.
