Graphene-based super-hydrophobic coatings

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Alcereco Inc. is interested in manufacturing super-hydrophobic coatings by taking advantage of a proprietary surface-conversion process that it has recently developed. Super-hydrophobic coatings exhibit poor water spreading characteristics, i.e., they cause water to bead up and form droplets with contact angles greater than 120 degrees. As such, these coatings can give water-repellent and self-cleaning properties to a material. The super-hydrophobic coatings that the company seeks to develop through this process are value-added and very sought-after materials that can be used by the public in numerous applications, including household items, building materials, automotive accessories, etc. These coatings constitute technologically advanced products, which can create new markets inside and outside Canada. Moreover, the successful development of a line of products based on these coatings is crucial for the growth of Alcereco, which in turn translates into increased employment opportunities for highly skilled Canadians. The current research project will seek ways to improve the super-hydrophobic characteristics of the existing coatings and ensure that such coatings are being produced by means of an economically viable and efficient manufacturing process that can be adopted by the company.