Patent ID: 6652669
Filing Date: 2003-11-25
Classification: C25D

Abstract:
A method for producing an ultraphobic surface that has a contact angle of &gE;150Â° and a roll-off angle of &lE;10Â° comprising:(1) treating an aluminum or aluminum-alloy support using one of the following series of steps (C), (D) or (E): (C) electrochemical pickling by exposing the aluminum or aluminum-alloy support surface to an electrical alternating voltage of>5 volts over a period of at least 5 sec, followed by anodizing the surface, (D) electrochemical pickling by exposing the aluminum or aluminum-alloy support surface to an electrical alternating voltage of>5 volts over a period of at least 5 sec, followed by anodizing the surface, followed by treatment in hot water or water vapor at a temperature of from 50 to 100Â° C., or (E) electrochemical pickling by exposing the aluminum or aluminum-alloy support surface to an electrical alternating voltage of>5 volts over a period of at least 5 sec, followed by treatment in hot water or water vapor at a temperature of from 50 to 100Â° C.; (2) optionally coating said surface with an adhesion promoter layer; and (3) providing said surface with a hydrophobic or oleophobic coating to form an ultraphobic surface, on said aluminum aluminum-alloy support material or on said adhesion promoter layer wherein said ultraphobic surface has a contact angle of &gE;150Â° and a roll-off angle of &lE;10Â°.