Harvard researchers inspired by nature for new textile coating
03/03/2014
SLIPS, or Slippery Liquid-Infused Porous Surfaces, launched in 2011, have been improved to retain protective properties after rubbing, twisting or washing.
“We believe that SLIPS fabric is a novel material that, for the first time, confers pressure and damage-tolerant omniphobicity on fabric-based substrates,” said Philseok Kim, a senior researcher on the project.
The scientists found inspiration from the carnivorous pitcher plant which uses a mixture of fluids and a mechanical trap to ensnare insects.
A start-up company is said to have approached the team regarding commercialising its applications.
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