Biodegradable ultra-repellent coating for ceramic surfaces
A biodegradable and renewable polysaccharide-based coating system that offers long-lasting, ultra-repellent properties on ceramic surfaces, reducing cleaning efforts and preventing adhesion of limescale and biofilms.
Overview
The Stevens Institute of Technology has developed a groundbreaking biodegradable and sustainable coating system designed for ceramic surfaces, such as toilet bowls. This innovative solution utilizes renewable polysaccharides combined with hydrophobic agents and nano-scale surface modifiers to create a durable, ultra-repellent surface. The coating significantly minimizes the adhesion of limescale, fecal matter, urine scale, and biofilms, thereby reducing the cleaning effort required compared to untreated or conventionally coated surfaces.
Technical specifications
Key components:
- Polysaccharides: Utilizes chitosan for strong adhesion and cellulose derivatives like hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) for excellent film-forming properties.
- Hydrophobic agents: Incorporates long-chain fatty acids (stearic acid) and wax esters (carnauba wax) for hydrophobicity and water repellency. Low-toxicity silicones derived from renewable sources enhance durability.
- Nano-scale surface modifiers: Silica nanoparticles increase surface roughness for enhanced hydrophobicity, while biogenic calcium carbonate improves mechanical stability.
This formulation is optimized through spray, dip-coating, and brush-on application methods and is validated for its repellency and durability through contact angle and abrasion resistance tests.
Technology readiness level
Currently, this technology is at TRL 3, with ongoing validation tasks including material design, application optimization, performance evaluation, environmental and toxicological validation, and prototype testing. These tasks aim to enhance the coating's ease of use, cleaning efficiency, and environmental impact assessment.
About Stevens Institute of Technology
Stevens Institute of Technology is a mid-sized, STEM-focused private research university in Hoboken, New Jersey, known for industry‑aligned education and applied research. Corporate partners engage through a co‑op program, sponsored research, and access to specialized labs and test facilities minutes from Manhattan. A dedicated corporate relations team and streamlined contracting help scope projects quickly, while an incubator and entrepreneurship programs link faculty expertise to venture pathways. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as the National Science Foundation, the Department of Defense, the Department of Energy, and the National Institutes of Health. A technology transfer office provides IP strategy, licensing, and startup support.
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