Lotus-Effect Technology from Sto Corp. creates a microtextured and superhydrophobic surface that repels dirt and water.
Benefits
- Superhydrophobic
- Antifouling
Applications
- Residential buildings
- Commercial buildings
UN Sustainable Development Goals Addressed
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Goal 9: Industry Innovation & Infrastructure
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Goal 11: Sustainable Cities & Communities
The Challenge
The soiling of a building façade becomes increasingly visible over time. On weather exposed sides in particular, microorganisms find an ideal environment for colonizing due to excess moisture and nutrients from dirt deposits. Building owners often have to use harsh chemicals to remove dirt and microbes, and may re-paint the building several times, which produces unnecessary waste.
Innovation Details
Lotus-Effect® Technology from Sto Corp. keeps facades clean and protects them from algae and fungi in a sustainable way. The microtextured and super-hydrophobic surface maintains an extremely small contact area for dirt and water. The dirt particles, which are loosely adhered to the surface, are simply carried away by the rain.
Biological Model
Lotus plants stay dirt-free, an obvious advantage for an aquatic plant living in typically muddy habitats. The surface of the lotus leaf contains microscopic bumps that prevent water molecules from adhering to the surface. Instead, the water rolls right off, and picks up any dirt or oil on the surface of the lotus leaf along the way.
