FOODinteract Research Team (I3A-LAQV)

PORPLANTSURF aims to produce innovative high-performance superhydrophobic films inspired in the surfaces of plant leaves and petals collected in Northern Portugal.

Inspired in 16 plant species, this project joined specialists in chemistry (surface wax composition) and physics (structure, wettability, etc.) to understand the phenomena behind their superhydrophobic properties. This understanding will be important for the production of biomimetic materials will exhibit a series of effects of high commercial interest, such as self-cleaning, anti-acing, anti-fogging, anti-fouling and anti-drag leading to major technological impact as smart coatings in the automobile, aeronautical, aerospacial and naval industries for a more secure transport, reduced fuel consumption, among others, and also in the painting industry, for more aesthetic and cleaner building surfaces. Barbot is working with the team to make this efforts a reality!

HIGHLIGHTS (PORPLANTSURF)