Multi-functional icephobic, robust, lightweight and transparent coatings for windows and lenses - ISOS

Project summary

Ice on window/lens surfaces cause operational difficulties in optical sensors and windshields. We propose a passive, environmentally friendly method to prevent or delay ice formation without the application of energy while preserving the surface optical properties. This solution overcomes the limits of the active methods currently employed that are costly, energy consuming, environmentally harmful and dangerous for lens/window integrity. Two families of innovative materials (functionalized graphene and self-lubricating liquid water layer) will be synthesised, characterised, and tested at lab level for multi-functional coatings (TRL4), with icephobic, robust, lightweight and transparent properties. The proposed approach is flexible, cost-effective and scalable in production, allowing a fast integration at industrial scale. The performances of the coatings for industrial application in the optical sensor market sector will be assessed and validated with the industrial advisory board.