Abstract:
A super hydrophobic self cleaning coating composition that can be applied by conventional methods such as by spraying the composition onto a surface creating a wet and dry dirt repellent coating on the surface. The super hydrophobic self cleaning coatings are used on exterior automotive and boat surfaces, and in many other applications, to produce a self cleaning surface, reduce adherence of dirt and contaminants to a treated surface, and reduce drag in some applications providing an energy savings. The coating utilizes a blend of organic and/or inorganic polymers with hydrophobic nanoparticles of fumed silica and/or titania in a volatile solvent which evaporates at ambient temperature. The coating solves the problem of poor resistance to UV light, opaque appearance, and/or some abrasion resistance not found in previous coatings of similar nature. A preferred coating has good resistance to UV light and some resistance to abrasion. Clear, nearly transparent and translucent coatings are produced as compared to conventional coatings of comparable hydrophobicity which are typically white or opaque. The coating can be applied by a single and easy spraying method and the super hydrophobic property can be achieved by drying the film by evaporation of the solvent at ambient temperature for 5 to 10 minutes. Embodiments of the super hydrophobic self-cleaning coating composition result in a clear coating or in some cases a translucent dirt repellant film for coating on painted material, plastic, metal, glass, ceramic, fiberglass or a polymer substrate. The coating utilizes a blend of organic and/or inorganic polymers with hydrophobic nanoparticles of fumed silica and/or titania in a volatile solvent. At least one preferred coating composition comprising an effective amount of a treated fumed silica in a solvent resulting in a coated surface providing a contact angle of at least 165 degrees as compared to water having a contact angle of from 10 to 15 degrees on a noncoated surface. The composition imparts a degree of hydrophobicity to a surface so that the surface will have a tilt angle of sliding of less than 2 degrees as compared to water on a noncoated surface having a tilt angle of sliding of 90 degrees or higher. The coating composition is removed by washing with a detergent or applying pressure to the coating wiping same from the treated surface. Exposure to water in the form of rain or snow does not remove the coating composition.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/699,883 and PCT/US07/02580 both of which were filed on Jan. 30, 2007 claiming priority from U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/763,294 filed on Jan. 30, 2006 and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/791,853 filed on Apr. 13, 2006 and U.S. application Ser. No. 11/897,978 filed on Aug. 31, 2007 claiming priority from U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/841,720 filed on Aug. 31, 2006 and claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/931,545 filed on May 24, 2007 all of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. Reference to documents made in the specification is intended to result in such patents or literature cited are expressly incorporated herein by reference, including any patents or other literature references cited within such documents as if fully set forth in this specification. 
     
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
       [0002]    The technical field of this invention is related to producing super hydrophobic coatings on surfaces to produce self-cleaning, corrosion resistant surfaces. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    This invention relates to appearance maintenance and enhancement, and protection of various surfaces from contaminants and from oxidation of surfaces in air and moisture. One of the primary applications includes the use of this technology in vehicle appearance products. Although, products for similar applications are widely available on the market, these products often require rinsing with water after use and usually rely on a temporary hydrophilic surface. Typically when the water dries from the surface, water marks, smears or spots are left behind due to the deposits of minerals which were present as dissolved solids in water. This problem is apparent when cleaning glass, painted surfaces, steel, alloy, plastic or ceramic surfaces. A means of solving this problem known in the literature is to dry the water from the surface using a cloth or chamois before the water marks form. However, this drying process is time consuming and requires considerable physical efforts. 
         [0004]    The lotus plant exhibits self cleaning properties because the surface of the leaves are covered with small nano sized projections, bumps or ridges. Surfaces exhibiting super hydrophobic characteristics due to nano sized irregularities thereof are often referred to as exhibiting the “Lotus Effect”. Super hydrophobic coatings utilizing nano sized irregularities applied to a surface form a high contact angle which resist wetting and adherence of dirt and contaminants. 
         [0005]    The only commercially available hygroscopic materials for producing this non-wetting and self-cleaning effect are fumed silica or tantania products sold under the trade name of MINCOR from BASF, and/or TEGOTOP from Degussa. Testing of these products have resulted in unsuitable coatings for application to substrates when coated alone or mixed with various types of hydrophobic particles, these and many other polymers, for example: acrylic resins, silicon containing graft copolymers, functional/non functional siloxanes, inorganic hybrids such as silsesquioxanes, acrylic polymers containing perfluoro pendant groups, TEFLON/NAFION type fluoro polymers, urethanes, fluorourethanes, polyethers, polyesters and silicon modified polyacrylates. It was found that the resulting coating is initially super hydrophobic and may remain so for long periods indoors. However, when exposed to outdoor UV light, rubbed even slightly, or in general exposed to weather, the coating loses super hydrophobicity (which we define as the instant shedding of water with no remaining drops) and becomes less hydrophobic within days or even hydrophilic and hence less useful for the object of this invention. 
       DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART 
       [0006]    Examination under the microscope after a week of exposure on a panel in a UV cabinet reveals that a coating made from fumed silica and at least one film forming binder as per U.S. Pat. No. 6,683,126 by Keller et al. issued in Jan. 27, 2004 is disintegrating as set forth in FIG. 1 wherein the polymers were selected from the class that have hydrophobicity such that the contact angle of the binders were above 90 degrees. (U.S. Pat. No. 6,683,126). Furthermore it has been published (GM reference) that lotus type coatings, when exposed to steam, lose their hydrophobicity. We have found that the state of the art is that no practical lotus coatings exist for the object of this invention. 
         [0007]    There are several published articles which address the elimination of water marks. In one example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,759,980, a composition, comprises a surfactant package consisting of a silicone-based surfactant and a polymer which is capable of bonding to a surface to make a hydrophilic film which eliminates the problem of water marks. However, this hydrophilic coating may tend to be removed from the surface by a single water rinse. German publication DE-A21 61 591 also describes a composition for cleaning cars wherein the surface is again made hydrophilic by using amino functional polymers. This coating also tends to be rinsed off from a single rinse. 
         [0008]    U.S. Pat. No. 6,660,363 by Barthlott granted on Dec. 9, 2003 teaches a means for permanently bonding hydrophobic polymers forming elevations and depressions between 5 to 200 nanometers creating a hydrophobic surface. U.S. Pat. No. 3,354,022 teaches that a permanent water repellant surface having a contact angle of more than 90 degrees can be formed from a polymer upon forming high and low projections having a high and low range of 1,000 microns or less. U.S. Patent Application S.N. 2005/0136217 A1 published on Jun. 23, 2005 by Barthlott et al. teaches a coating producing protrusions and recesses in a ratio having a distance range of from 0.1 to 200 m and the height in a range of from 0.1 to 100 m. 
         [0009]    U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2004/0213904 describes a process for producing detachable dirt- and water-repellent surface coatings on articles. Hydrophobic particles are applied to the surface of the articles generating elevations on the surface of the articles that has dirt- and water-repellent properties. The process suspends the hydrophobic particles in a solution of an alkyl-modified silicone wax in a highly volatile siloxane. The suspension is applied to a surface of an article. The highly volatile siloxane is removed forming a coating. A disadvantage is that the coating appears to have a grayish or hazy layer. 
         [0010]    In another example, PCT WO97/48927 teaches a direct method of a cleaning composition, method of application and apparatus. This reference describes using a spray gun comprising separate chambers for the cleaning solution and ion exchange resin. Moreover, it recommends to use purified rinse water which is expensive to use. There are number of waxes and other products available in the market for attempting to retain this spot free finish. Typically these products are designed to hydroponically modify the surfaces after waxing so that the water will bead up on the hydrophobic surface. However, the hydrophobicity of the surfaces is not sufficient enough to bead the water completely from the surface thereby leaving the water spot when the water dries. Moreover, the prior art relating to hydrophobic and/or self-cleaning coatings is primarily related to permanent attachment to the substrate being coated rather than being a temporary and replenish able coating. 
         [0011]    U.S. Patent publication 20060110542 published on May 25, 2006 discloses a composition for forming a detachable and renewable protective coating produced by making a highly concentrated dispersion of hydroponically modified silica particles in the presence of a disilazane derivative under high shear conditions. Thus, a binder is required for the composition. 
         [0012]    Although a variety of polymers will work if coated with a hydrophobic nanoparticles material, e.g. silsesquioxanes, perfluoroacrylic resins etc. only a few polymers serve as an adequate base for the particles because the surface area of exposed polymer is vastly increased due to very thin film and rough surface area produced by the coating. This problem was either not understood or not solved in the prior art references. 
         [0013]    Therefore, there is a need to develop a process and coating for protecting various surfaces from the appearance of water marks, corrosion, and dirt repellency, while maintaining the water repellency even after several water rinses, which is clear or at least nearly transparent and removable with conventional detergents. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0014]    The present invention provides a coating composition which is super hydrophobic, and when applied on a surface, typically metal, fiberglass, plastic, ceramic, glass, painted material, etc. produces a difficult to wet surface. Contact angles of a liquid such as water on the coated surface should be difficult to measure with conventional means because the water droplet bounces or runs off the surface when applied. The contact angle exceeds 165 degrees and the tilt angle of sliding is less than 2 degrees. 
         [0015]    The present invention relates to a process and composition for creating super hydrophobic coatings (contact angle&gt;165 degree) on various surfaces, preferably plastics, metals, glass, fiberglass, ceramics, wood, and painted and/or waxed surfaces. Super hydrophobic coatings of this type have recently been cited for the purpose of keeping surfaces cleaner, similar to the lotus plant, and the high contact angle is known as the “lotus effect” which depends upon having a hydrophobic surface formed of wax with an irregular surface texture caused by nanometer sized projections or irregularities whereby the surface area of a drop of liquid such as water is not great enough to overcome the high contact angle formed with the hydrophobic surface resulting in the liquid being repelled from the surface. Examples of commercially available materials which attempt to produce this “Lotus” cleaning effect are products sold under the trade name of MINCOR available from BASF, and TEGOTOP available from Degussa. These products have been tested for their ability to protect various surfaces from the appearance of water marks, corrosion, and dirt repellency and while maintaining the water repellency, but were deemed unsuitable. When coated alone or mixed with various types of hydrophobic particles, these and many other polymers, e.g. acrylic resins, silicon containing graft copolymers, functional/non functional siloxanes, inorganic hybrids such as silsesquioxanes, acrylic polymers containing perfluoro pendant groups, polytetrafluoroethylene, NAFION type fluoro polymers, urethanes, fluorourethanes, polyethers, polyesters and silicon modified polyacrylates, it was found that the resulting coating is initially super hydrophobic and may remain so for long periods indoors; however, when exposed to outdoor UV light, rubbed even slightly, or in general exposed to weather, the coating loses super hydrophobicity (which we define as the instant shedding of water with no remaining drops) and becomes less hydrophobic within days or even hydrophilic and hence less useful for the object of the present invention. Examination under the microscope after a week of exposure on a panel in a UV cabinet reveals that a coating made from fumed silica and at least one film forming binder as taught in U.S. Pat. No. 6,683,126 disintegrates. None of the conventional hydrophobic compositions known provide a long lasting super hydrophobic coating that has the benefit of self cleaning of various surfaces and will reduce icing caused by water drops, is removable with detergents, and clear or nearly transparent. Moreover, snow and ice covering horizontal surfaces can be more easily removed from the surfaces protected with the coating formed from the composition of the present invention. The coatings of the instant invention are inexpensive compared to paint and can be sprayed regularly if necessary to keep the surface clean without any further steps. 
         [0016]    In the instant invention polymer resins with UV light stability and good adhesion to metals, glass, plastic, painted and many other surfaces, are combined with a small amount of hydrophobic nanoparticles of fumed silica and/or titania in a solvent so that the coating imparts sufficient surface roughness for super hydrophobicity. The polymer and nanoparticles can be applied by brush, dipping, or spraying in a broad range of solid mixtures using VOC complaint solvents and can be applied using an aerosol propellent. The final uniform coating can be obtained by drying the film at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes. 
         [0017]    The present invention described herein provides a long lasting transparent, removable self cleaning super hydrophobic coating that has the benefit of reducing drag, noise, and will reduce icing caused by water drops. However it should be noted that snow will cover horizontal surfaces but can be more easily removed from the surfaces protected with the invented coatings. Furthermore, the invented coatings are inexpensive compared to paint and can be sprayed regularly if necessary to help prevent icing. 
         [0018]    The static contact angle of a drop of liquid can be used to measure the wettability of surfaces. The static contact angle, (“contact angle”), can be defined as the angle produced by the surface and a tangent along the surface of the liquid drop in the region of the contact point of the liquid drop with the surface. A contact angle of 0 defines complete wettability and does not form a drop. A contact angle of 180 degrees defines complete unwettability. 
         [0019]    The hydrophobic self-cleaning properties of the coating composition of the present invention forms an almost clear, transparent dirt repellant film or coating on painted material, plastic, metal, glass, ceramic, fiberglass or polymer substrate. A preferred coating composition comprising an effective amount of a treated fumed silica in a selected solvent applied to a surface resulted in a coated surface providing a contact angle of at least 165 degrees as compared to water having a contact angle of from 10 to 15 degrees on a noncoated surface. The composition also imparted a degree of hydrophobicity to the treated surface resulting in a tilt angle of sliding of less than 2 degrees as compared to water on a noncoated surface having a tilt angle of sliding of 90 degrees or higher. 
         [0020]    In the instant invention, compositions are provided having a small amount of nanoparticles of fumed silica and/or titania, or other hydrophobic nanoparticles component with good UV light stability and good adhesion to metals, glass, plastic, painted and many other surfaces. The composition does not require any binding materials as taught in the prior art. 
         [0021]    The coating composition of the present invention can be conveniently applied as an aerosol. If propellant is used it will generally be in an amount from about 10 wt % to about 100 wt % of the aerosol formulation. Normally, the amount of a particular propellant should provide an internal pressure of from about 40 to 100 p.s.i.g. at 70° F. The suspended treated silica generally will be in an amount from about 0.1 wt % to about 10 wt % of the aerosol formulation. To make the silica coating easier to apply it can be dispersed in solvents. The solvent composition can be in the range of 0 wt % to 60 wt %. 
         [0022]    The object of this invention is to provide a super hydrophobic coating, that is so hydrophobic that water will bounce off the surface of nominally horizontal coated surfaces. In this case the contact angle is so large, (greater than 165 degrees in at least one embodiment), that it cannot be measured by conventional instrumentation. 
         [0023]    The present invention relates to a process and composition for creating hydrophobic coating compositions having a contact angle of 165 degrees of greater on various surfaces, preferably plastics, metals, glass, ceramics, and painted and/or waxed surfaces. 
         [0024]    The present invention provides a coating composition and process for generating transparent, near-transparent, and translucent super-hydrophobic coatings on surfaces resulting in a contact angle of greater than 165 degrees. 
         [0025]    The super hydrophobic coating composition that can be used to make wet and dry dirt repellent surfaces that remain clean for a reasonable period of time. 
         [0026]    The coating solves the problem of poor resistance to UV light and/or abrasion found in previous coatings of similar nature. The transparent, near transparent, or translucent coatings can be produced using the current invention whereas previous coatings of comparable hydrophobicity have all been white or opaque. 
         [0027]    The present invention relates to at least one embodiment of a process and a composition for creating hydrophobic self cleaning coatings having a contact angle of at least 165 degrees on various surfaces, preferably plastics, metals, glass, ceramics, and painted and/or waxed surfaces. 
         [0028]    It is an object of the present invention to provide a formulation of a hydrophobic coating which resists abrasion and the elements particularly ultraviolet “UV” light. UV light stability of the super hydrophobic coatings is extremely important especially for exterior surfaces such as on automobiles and other vehicles used for transportation and recreation. 
         [0029]    It is another object to provide a self-cleaning coating for application to transparent or translucent glass, plastic, or metal panels for use in building and automotive windows. 
         [0030]    It is another object to provide a self-cleaning coating for application to glass, plastic, or opaque metal panels for use in building and automotive windows. 
         [0031]    It is another object to provide a self-cleaning coating for application to glass, plastic, or metal panels to reduce the static cling of dust particles. 
         [0032]    It is another object to provide a self-cleaning coating to the interior or exterior of metal tanks such as aluminum or stainless steel used for storage or transport of liquids by truck, railcar, airplane, or ship. 
         [0033]    Another object is to provide coatings that are practical in use, that do not degrade rapidly in sunlight, that can be readily applied, and have enough resistance to abrasion to survive for a practical length of time depending upon the application for a significant amount of time to decrease the adhesion of dirt on a coated surface subjected to gas, liquid, and solid fluid flows and/or combinations thereof as compared to uncoated surfaces even with environmental exposure in the application of use. 
         [0034]    Another object is to provide a process for applying a self cleaning coating containing hydrophobic nanoparticles without the use of adhesives or by pre-treating the surface of the substrate to be coated. 
         [0035]    It is another object of the present invention to provide a self cleaning coating composition containing hydrophobic nanoparticles that cures by evaporation of the volatile solvent and does not require any special treatment such as heat, IR or UV light, or crosslinking to cure. 
         [0036]    It is an object of the present invention to provide a hydrophobic self-cleaning composition which upon application to a surface forms a uniform coating by drying and evaporation of the solvent forming a coating or film at ambient temperature within 5 to 10 minutes. 
         [0037]    The hydrophobic coating composition forms an almost clear, translucent film or coating on painted material, plastic, metal, glass, ceramic, fiberglass or polymer substrate. A preferred coating composition comprising an effective amount of a treated fumed silica in a solvent will result in a coated surface providing a contact angle of at least 165 degrees as compared to water having a contact angle of from 10 to 15 degrees on a noncoated surface. Said composition imparts a degree of hydrophobicity to a surface so that the surface will have a tilt angle of sliding of less than 2 degrees as compared to water on a noncoated surface having a tilt angle of sliding of 90 degrees or higher. 
         [0038]    It is an object of the present invention to provide a super hydrophobic coating, which is so hydrophobic that water will bounce off the surface of nominally horizontal coated surfaces. In this case the contact angle is so large (greater than 165 degree) that it can not be measured by conventional instrumentation. 
         [0039]    Another object of the present invention is to provide coatings that are practical in use, that do not degrade rapidly in sunlight, that can be readily applied, and have enough resistance to abrasion to survive for a practical length of time, preferably for weeks or months depending upon environmental conditions to which the coating is exposed. 
         [0040]    It is an object of the present invention to apply the hydrophobic nanoparticles containing composition by conventional methods of application such as by spraying, 
         [0041]    Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a clear, translucent, pigmented, florescent, dyed, tinted, or illuminative hydrophobic self cleaning coating for application to a metal, plastic, glass, cloth, ceramic, clay, fiber, concrete, brick, rock, cinder block, paper, film, or wood surface. 
         [0042]    It is an object of the present invention that application can be by using a pressurized container, tube, aerosol, or spray bottle or applied by pump spray, brush, roll, or dipping onto dry surfaces. 
         [0043]    It is an object of the present invention to provide a self cleaning coating which can be placed upon a solid substrate such as paints, metals, plastics, concrete, natural and synthetic elastomers, and ceramics and removed by washing with detergent, mechanical means such as brushing or applying pressure to the coating by high pressure sprays. 
         [0044]    It is an object of the present invention to provide a solvent based carrier for the self cleaning hydrophobic coating for use on metal, plastic, glass, paper, or wood surfaces having existing protective coatings of paint, varnish, film, without damaging the existing protective coatings. 
         [0045]    It is another object of the present invention to produce a removable coating which does not damage the surface. 
         [0046]    It is yet another object of the present invention to produce a protective coating which will not damage paint, chrome, plastic, fiberglass, or other substrate to be coated therewith. 
         [0047]    It is another object of the present invention to produce a self cleaning hydrophobic coating which is easily to apply as a liquid, foam, jell, paste, semi-solid, or aerosol. 
         [0048]    It is another object of the hydrophobic coating embodiment to be applied to surfaces without the use of any complicated apparatus. 
         [0049]    It is yet another object of the hydrophobic coating to cure by evaporation of a selected volatile solvent at ambient temperature thereby drying and forming a thin film, and not requiring a cross-linking curing agent. 
         [0050]    A preferred composition utilizes a fumed silica compound such as a hydrophobic fumed silica in an amount of up to 10 percent by weight based on the total weight of the composition and a volatile solvent up to 99 percent by weight based on the total weight of the composition. Optionally a fragrance can be added to the formulation. In addition, a propellant can be added to the formulation. Other optional components which may be added to the composition which are not required, but impart desirable qualities to the composition include a colorant such as a dye or pigment in an effective amount of about 0.005 percent by weight of the total composition; a fragrance such as bubblegum in an effective amount of about 0.10 percent by weight of the total composition; and/or a preservative such as SURCIDE P in an effective amount of about 0.1 percent by weight of the total composition. 
         [0051]    It is an object of the present invention to provide a super hydrophobic self-cleaning nanoparticle containing composition which can be sprayed in a broad range of solid mixtures using VOC complaint solvents with aerosol propellants. For instance, a pressurized liquid propellant may be utilized as a carrier to apply the film coating. The preferred embodiments of the present invention use a nonfloronated propellant. A commercial liquid hydrocarbon propellant which is compatible with the preferred composition may be selected from the group of A-31, A-46, A-70, or A-108 propane/isobutane blends, with A-46 and A-70 being the most preferred propellant for use with particular compositions. The composition may contain up to 25 weight percent of the propellant, and more preferably from 5 to 20 weight percent of the propellant. 
         [0052]    Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a clear, translucent, pigmented, florescent, dyed, tinted, or illuminative hydrophobic self-cleaning coating for application to a metal, plastic, glass, cloth, ceramic, clay, fiber, concrete, brick, rock, cinder block, paper, film, or wood surface. 
         [0053]    It is an object of the present invention to provide a self-cleaning coating which can be applied to a solid substrate such as paints, metals, plastics, concrete, natural and synthetic elastomers, and ceramics and removed by washing or applying pressure to the coating while wiping same from the treated surface. 
         [0054]    It is an object of the present invention to provide a solvent based carrier for the self-cleaning hydrophobic coating for use on metal, plastic, glass, paper, chrome, surfaces having existing protective coatings of paint, varnish, and film, without damaging the existing protective coatings. 
         [0055]    It is another object of the present invention to produce a self cleaning hydrophobic coating which is easily to apply as a liquid, foam, jell, paste, semi-solid, or aerosol. 
         [0056]    It is another object of the self cleaning hydrophobic coating embodiment to be applied to surfaces without complicated apparatus. 
         [0057]    It is yet another object of the self-cleaning hydrophobic coating to cure by evaporation of a selected solvent at ambient temperature and not requiring a cross-linking curing agent. 
         [0058]    It is an object of the present invention to provide a self-cleaning hydrophobic coating which can be applied by brush, roll, spray, or dipping onto dry surfaces. 
         [0059]    It is an object of the present invention to be used for treating non-porous and porous surfaces such as automotive and household materials including wheels, wheel trim, wheel covers, removable wheel covers, splash guards, car panels and painted surfaces, clear-coated car surfaces, metal, painted metal fixtures, chromed articles, bumpers, bumper stickers, bug deflectors, rain deflectors, vinyl materials including car boots, wheel covers, convertible tops, camper awnings, sun shades, vehicle covers, license plates, plastic articles, lens covers, signal light lens covering, brake light lens covering, headlamp and fog light lens, vinyl, rubber, plastic, and leather surfaces, dashboard, dash instrument lens covering, seats, carpet, and floor runners. 
         [0060]    It is an object of the present invention to be used for treating metals, metal oxides, aluminum, anodized aluminum, painted substrates, stainless steel, chrome, clear-coated automotive surfaces, elastomers, vinyl, plastics, polymers, sealed wood, laminates, composites, and the like. 
         [0061]    It is an object of the present invention to be used for treating carpet, curtains, marble, granite, stone, brick, concrete, grout, mortar, drywall, spackling, plaster, adobe, stucco, unglazed tile, tile, unglazed porcelain, porcelain, clay, wallpaper, cardboard, paper, wood, and the like. 
         [0062]    The foregoing objects are accomplished by selecting hydrophobic nanoparticles which enables the formulation of a composition which will produce a practical self cleaning coating that is not easily destroyed by fog, UV light, abrasion, or by flowing water. 
         [0063]    Other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be apparent with the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings showing a preferred embodiment of the invention and appended claims. 
     
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
       [0064]    The coatings in the examples are optimized formulations that contain super hydrophobic nanoparticles, for example, fumed silica and/or titania. Although a variety of nanoparticles will work if treated with a hydrophobic material, e.g. silsesquioxanes, perfluoroacrylic resins etc. only few polymers serve as an adequate base for the particles because the surface area of exposed polymer is vastly increased due to very thin film and rough surface area produced by the coating. 
         [0065]    The present invention provides a formulation which can utilize nanoparticles in the composition without any binder to produce a practical lotus effect that is not easily destroyed by fog, UV light, or abrasion, or by flowing water. 
         [0066]    Nanoparticles that can be used to make the coatings of this invention are generally derived from the class of fumed silica&#39;s and hydrophobic titania&#39;s and zinc oxides, e.g. DEGUSSA AEROSIL R8200, DEGUSSA AEROSIL 812 S, and CAB-O-SIL TS 530, TS 610, TS 720. The particle size of the nanoparticles are from about 7 to 200 nm and more preferably from about 10-100 nanometers. 
         [0067]    Amounts listed in percentage are in weight percent as indicated as “wt. %”, (based on 100 wt. % active) of the total composition or formulation described. As used herein, the term “particle” is intended to include any discrete particle, primary particle, aggregate and/or aggregated collection of primary particles, agglomerate and/or agglomerated collection of aggregates, and/or colloidally dispersed particles, aggregates, agglomerates and/or loose assemblies of particulate materials, and combinations thereof. 
         [0068]    To make the silica coating easier to apply it can be dispersed in solvents, preferably acetone and or aliphatic hydrocarbons and/or other VOC complaint solvents to make it spray able. The solvent may also be selected from the groups consisting of an alcohol, a hydrocarbon, mineral spirits, or ketone. 
         [0069]    A preferred method of application is by spraying the solvent/particle dispersion as an aerosol. Suitable propellants are carbon dioxide, a hydrocarbon (for example mixtures of propane, butane and isobutane), a fluorocarbon, difluoroethane, or compressed air. One preferred hydrocarbon is a propane/isobutane. 
         [0070]    A more detailed description of some of the ingredients utilized in the preferred embodiments of the self cleaning hydrophobic compositions are as follows: 
       Binders 
       [0071]    Although a variety of polymers will work if coated with a hydrophobic nanoparticles material, e.g. silsesquioxanes, perfluoroacrylic resins etc. only a few polymers serve as an adequate base for the particles because the surface area of exposed polymer is vastly increased due to very thin film and rough surface area produced by the coating. This problem was either not understood or not solved in the prior art references. Formulation of the coating to resist abrasion and the elements, particularly UV light is an object of this invention. UV stability of the super hydrophobic coatings is extremely important especially for exterior surfaces which are exposed to UV light. 
         [0072]    The majority of the potential binders are not stable in the lotus type coating and only careful selection of the binder and/or formulation with stabilizing additives will produce a practical lotus effect that is not easily destroyed by fog, UV light, or abrasion, e.g. by flowing water. Furthermore the polymers must be selected from the class that have hydrophobicity such that the contact angle of water on the polymer surface alone exceeds 120 degrees. 
         [0073]    A preferred class of UV stable hydrophobic polymers are the trimethylsilyl end capped siloxanes, e.g. Wacker Polymer NA. These polymers can be combined with 0.1 to 5% of hydrophobic fumed silicas such as DeGussa Aerosil R8200 and coated as diluted in 95% solvent, preferably acetone, to form a super hydrophobic coating. This transparent, more uniform film is stable when exposed outdoors to strong UV light, rain, wind, etc. for a minimum time of one month, compared to 3 days for most other polymers including acrylates, urethane acrylates, homopolymers and copolymers of ethylenically unsaturated monomers, acrylic acid/maleic anhydride copolymers etc. 
         [0074]    A preferred embodiment of the present invention contains a binder in an effective amount of up to 1.5 percent by weight of the total composition. The more preferred embodiments of the invention utilizes an effective amount of ranging from 0.001 to 2.0 percent by weight, and more preferably in a range of from to 0.01 to 1.5 percent by weight, and more preferably in a range of from between 0.1 to 1.0 percent by weight, and more preferably between 0.1 to 0.5 percent by weight based on the total weight of the composition. One preferred embodiment as set forth in Example 4, uses a binder polymer (aminofunctional siloxanes from Dow Corning) in an amount of about 0.3 percent by weight based on the total weight of the composition. 
       Hydrophobic Surface Modifier 
       [0075]    The coatings in the examples are optimized formulations that contain super hydrophobic nanoparticles. Although a variety of nanoparticles will work if coated with a hydrophobic material, e.g. fumed silica and/or titania, perfluoroacrylic resins etc. 
         [0076]    It is believed the instant composition is a novel combination of synergistic components including the addition of a hydrophobic fumed silica; however, a preferred embodiment of the present invention contains hydrophobic fumed silica in an effective amount of up to 1.5 percent by weight of the total composition. The more preferred embodiments of the invention utilizes an effective amount of ranging from 0.001 to 2.0 percent by weight, and more preferably in a range of from to 0.01 to 1.5 percent by weight, and more preferably in a range of from between 0.1 to 1.0 percent by weight, and more preferably between 0.1 to 0.5 percent by weight based on the total weight of the composition. One preferred embodiment as set forth in Example 1, uses nanoparticles of modified silica particles in an amount of about 0.25 percent by weight based on the total weight of the composition. 
         [0077]    Suitable hydrophobically modified fumed silica particles that may be used in the present invention include silica particles that have been hydrophobicized by any means known in the art. 
         [0078]    Nanoparticles that can be used to make the coatings of this invention are generally from the class of fumed silicas and hydrophobic titanias and zinc oxides, e.g. Degussa AEROSIL R8200, Degussa AEROSIL812 S, Cab-o-sil TS 530, TS 610, TS 720. The composition of the present invention contains a hydrophobic fumed silica such as sold under the trade name of AEROXIDE LE3 to generate self cleaning nanostructured hydrophobic surfaces which repel water. The average particle size distribution of particles is believed to be between 100 to 4,000 nanometers. The LE 3 brand has a specific surface area (BET) of 100+−30 m 2 g, a carbon content of 3 to 6 weight percent, tapped density of approximately 60 g/l (According to (DIN EN ISO 787/11, August 1983), and a moisture of less than or equal to 1.0 weight percent (2 hours at 105° C.). 
         [0079]    Several types of hydrophobically modified fumed silica is set forth in U.S. Patent Publication No. US 2006/0110542 by Dietz et al. Published on May 25, 2006 which is incorporated by reference herein and are described as follows: 
         [0080]    Colloidal silicon dioxide is a generally fumed silica prepared by a suitable process to reduce the particle size and modify the surface properties. The surface properties are modified to produce fumed silica by production of the silica material under conditions of a vapor-phase hydrolysis at an elevated temperature with a surface modifying silicon compound, such as silicon dimethyl bichloride. Such products are commercially available from a number of sources, including Cabot Corporation, Tuscola, Ill. (under the trade name CAB-O-SIL) and Degussa, Inc., Parsippany, N.J. (under the trade name AEROSIL). 
         [0081]    Suitable hydrophobically modified fumed silica particles include, but are not limited to: those commercially available from Degussa Corporation, Parsippany, N.J., as designated under the R Series of the AEROSIL[R] and AEROXIDE[R]LE trade names. The different AEROSIL[R]R and AEROXIDE[R]LE types differ in the kind of hydrophobic coating, the BET surface area, the average primary particle size and the carbon content. The hydrophobic properties are a result of a suitable hydrophobizing treatment, e.g., treatment with at least one compound from the group of the organosilanes, alkylsilanes, the fluorinated silanes, and/or the disilazanes. Commercially available examples include AEROSIL[R]R 202, AEROSIL[R]R 805, AEROSIL[R] R 812, AEROSIL[R]R 812 S, AEROSIL[R] R 972, AEROSIL[R]R 974, AEROSIL[R]R 8200, AEROXIDE[R]LE-1 and AEROXIDE[R] LE-2. 
         [0082]    Other silica materials are also suitable when hydrophobically modified by use of hydrophobizing materials capable of rendering the surfaces of the silica particles suitably hydrophobic. The suitable hydrophobizing materials include all those common in the art that are compatible for use with the silica materials to render their surfaces suitably hydrophobic. Suitable examples, include, but are not limited to: the organosilanes, alkylsilanes, the fluorinated silanes, and/or the disilazanes. Suitable organosilanes include, but are not limited to: alkylchlorosilanes; alkoxysilanes, e.g., methyltrimethoxysilane, methyltriethoxysilane, ethyltrimethoxysilane, ethyltriethoxysilane, n-propyltrimethoxysilane, n-propyltriethoxysilane, i-propyltrimethoxysilane, i-propyltriethoxysilane, butyltrimethoxysilane, butyltriethoxysilane, hexyltrimethoxysilane, octyltrimethoxysilane, 3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane, n-octyltriethoxysilane, phenyltriethoxysilane, polytriethoxysilane; trialkoxyarylsilanes; isooctyltrimethoxy-silane; N-(3-triethoxysilylpropyl)methoxyethoxyethoxy ethyl carbamate; N-(3-triethoxysilylpropyl)methoxyethoxyethoxyethyl carbamate; polydialkylsiloxanes including, e.g., polydimethylsiloxane; arylsilanes including, e.g., substituted and unsubstituted arylsilanes; alkylsilanes including, e.g., substituted and unsubstituted alkyl silanes including, e.g., methoxy and hydroxy substituted alkyl silanes; and combinations thereof. Some suitable alkylchlorosilanes include, for example, methyltrichlorosilane, dimethyldichlorosilane, trimethylchlorosilane, octylmethyldichlorosilane, octyltrichlorosilane, octadecylmethyldichlorosilane and octadecyltrichlorosilane. Other suitable materials include, for example, methylmethoxysilanes such as methyltrimethoxysilane, dimethyldimethoxysilane and trimethylmethoxysilane; methylethoxysilanes such as methyltriethoxysilane, dimethyldiethoxysilane and trimethylethoxysilane; methylacetoxysilanes such as methyltriacetoxysilane, dimethyldiacetoxysilane and trimethylacetoxysilane; vinylsilanes such as vinyltrichlorosilane, vinylmethyldichlorosilane, vinyldimethylchlorosilane, vinyltrimethoxysilane, vinylmethyldimethoxysilane, vinyldimethylmethoxysilane, vinyltriethoxysilane, vinylmethyldiethoxysilane and vinyldimethylethoxysilane. 
         [0083]    Suitable disilazanes include for example, but are not limited to: hexamethyldisilazane, divinyltetramethyldisilazane and bis(3,3-trifluoropropyl)tetramethyldisilazane. Cyclosilazanes are also suitable, and include, for example, octamethylcyclotetrasilazane. It is noted that the aforementioned disilazanes and cyclosilazanes typically have the basic formula (I) and (II) described above. Thus, these disilazanes and cyclosilazanes can be used as either or both as hydrophobizing material for hydrophobically modifying fumed silica particles and as a processing aid in forming the pre-dispersion. 
         [0084]    Suitable fluorinated silanes include the fluorinated alkyl-, alkoxy-, aryl- and/or alkylaryl-silanes, and fully perfluorinated alkyl-, alkoxy-, aryl- and/or alkylaryl-silanes. Examples of fluoroalkyl silanes include, but are not limited to: those marketed by Degussa under the trade name of DYNASYLAN. An example of a suitable fluorinated alkoxy-silane is perfluorooctyl trimethoxysilane. 
       Hydrocarbon Solvents 
       [0085]    To make the coating easier to apply it can be dissolved in solvents, preferably acetone, alcohol, and/or aliphatic hydrocarbons and/or other VOC complaint solvents to make it spray able. 
         [0086]    Organic solvents useful in the present invention include isoparaffins, aliphatic hydrocarbon solvents, paraffinic solvents, paraffins, synthetic isoparaffinic solvents. They aid in the control and slow down the evaporation rate of the film formation and aid in leveling of the solids. 
       Light Hydrocarbon Distillate 
       [0087]    The solvent concentration consisting of light distillate hydrocarbons and isoparaffinic hydrocarbons can vary from about 15% to about 85% by weight of the final formulation. 
         [0088]    In addition to being a carrier for the film forming ingredients, the hydrocarbon solvent functions both to remove oil based stains as well as to dissolve contaminants previously deposited on the surface preventing buildup. The hydrocarbon solvent should have an appropriate evaporation rate in order to provide adequate contact time to dissolve old solvent based coatings on the surface to be treated, but not so slow as to result in smearing of the deposited film. Moreover, the hydrocarbon solvent aids in cleansing and in the aid of the removal of residual water upon application of the coating composition on a substrate surface being treated. 
         [0089]    Light Distillate solvents useful in the formulation are predominately aliphatic hydrocarbon solvents and other light distillates. For instance, hydrocarbons containing up to 100 percent aliphatic hydrocarbons are most preferable and hydrocarbons containing less than 1 percent aromatic content are deemed very desirable. Also useful are solvents typically containing from about 10 to 90 percent aliphatic hydrocarbons and from about 0 to 10 percent aromatic hydrocarbons. Solvents deemed suitable which contain less than 10% aromatic hydrocarbons include odorless mineral spirits, Stoddard solvent, and mixed alkanes that have a flash point of about 40° C. A light distillate sold under the trade name of CALUMET 420-460 (LVP100), can be utilized in the composition. 
         [0090]    Light Distillate hydrocarbons containing up to 100 percent aliphatic hydrocarbons are most preferable and hydrocarbons containing less than 1 percent aromatic content are deemed very desirable. Also useful are solvents typically containing from about 10 to 90 percent aliphatic hydrocarbons and from about 0 to 10 percent aromatic hydrocarbons. Solvents deemed suitable which contain less than 10% aromatic hydrocarbons include odorless naphtha mineral spirits, turpentine, kerosene, V.M.&amp; P, naphtha, Stoddard solvent, and mixed alkanes that have a flash point of about 40° C. 
         [0091]    The present invention contains light distillate hydrocarbons in an effective amount of between 15 to 75 percent by weight, more preferably between 20 to 45 percent by weight, and more preferably 25 to 35 percent by weight based on the weight of the total composition. 
       Isoparaffinic Hydrocarbon High Boiling Organic Solvent 
       [0092]    A synthetic isoparaffinic hydrocarbons such as ISOPAR G, ISOPAR M, ISOPAR E, CONOSOL 200, LPA 210, LVP 200 are also useful isoparaffinic hydrocarbon solvents in the present invention. 
         [0093]    In addition to the aliphatic hydrocarbon distillate, a preferred embodiment utilizes an isoparaffinic organic solvent added to the composition to aid in cleansing and aid in the removal of residual water upon application of the product on a surface. 
         [0094]    Preferred organic solvents are sold under the trade name of ISOPAR which are synthetically produced isoparaffinic solvent sold by ExxonMobil Chemical Company which exhibit a low surface tension and also aid in the spreadability of dispersed components. The isoparaffinic solvents are highly aliphatic compounds containing a high percentage of isoparaffins. The organic solvents used in the present invention are typically considered high boiling solvents having a low vapor pressure typically less than 1.0 mm Hg at 20° C. and preferably 0.1 mm Hg or less at 20° C. Furthermore, the most preferred ISOPAR solvents reportedly have a vapor pressure of about 10 mm Hg at 38° C. and more preferably have a vapor pressure of about 4 mm Hg at 38° C. The evaporation rate is an important criteria in selection of the organic solvent. 
         [0095]    For instance, a preferred ISOPAR solvent is ISOPAR G which has a distillation range for IBP of 163 and DP of 176 F, a flash point of 41° C. and evaporation rate of 21 at (N-BuAc=100). 
         [0096]    It is also anticipated that white spirits, such as are produced by SHELLSOL (Shell Co. And EXXSOL produced by ExxonMobil Corporation can also be utilized as the solvent. 
         [0097]    A preferred embodiment utilizes ISOPAR G as a high boiling organic hydrocarbon solvent from ExxonMobil in an effective amount of from of between 15 to 75 percent by weight, more preferably between 30 to 55 percent by weight, and more preferably 35 to 50 percent by weight based on the weight of the total composition. 
       UV Protection 
       [0098]    Some polymer classes such as acrylates can be improved in UV stability by adding up to 0.05% of zinc oxide nanoparticles, e.g. ZnO from Nanotechnology Inc. For example, the formula 052-A without ZnO had a UV stability of less than 64 hrs in the UV cabinet (0.68 W/m 2  at 340 nm, 55° C.). When 0.003% nano zinc oxide was added, UV stability was improved to 31 days. Stability is determined by observing that the super hydrophobic effect has not diminished and by examining the film under the microscope before and after exposure. Polymers known to improve the UV stability with ZnO are hydroxy-functional silicone modified polyacrylates, polycarboxylates, polyethers, polyvinylacetates. Other polymers that failed to show good UV stability include amino functional siloxanes. 
         [0099]    Another preferred class of UV and abrasion resistant hydrophobic polymers are the perfluoro alkyl substituted acrylic polymers. This class of polymers has excellent hydrophobicity and good abrasion resistance. 
         [0100]    A conventional zinc oxide can be used in the instant formulation to provide UV protection to the instant composition; however, a preferred embodiment of the present invention utilizes a micro fine transparent nanometer sized zinc oxide powder which offers exceptional and along lasting broad spectrum UV-B/UV-A protection. It is highly effective to protect transparent plastics and plastic films from harmful ultraviolet radiation. Its homogeneous small particles and narrow particle size distribution provides for excellent transparency. It is non-migratory and has antibacterial properties. 
         [0101]    Regular commercially available zinc oxides have specific surface areas below 10 m 2 /gr, (typically 4-6 m 2 /gr), resulting in high primary particle sizes which results in white particle in appearance. The mean particle diameter of the zinc oxide is about 35 nanometers and the majority of the particles range from about 20 to 35 nanometers. One source of the nanometer sized zinc oxide, (ZANO 20) is Umicore Zinc Chemicals in Belgium. One preferred embodiment utilizes zinc oxide particles having a specific surface area of minimum 20 m 2 /gr, resulting in very fine loosely aggregated particles having a primary particle size below 60 nanometer providing a narrow particle size distribution allowing the zinc oxide to be used in transparent applications. Additional zinc oxide products available from Umicore Zinc Chemicals suitable for use in the present invention is sold under the trade name of ZANO LS and has a specific surface are of 20-30 m 2 /gr and a primary particle size (calculated) of about 35-55 nanometers; and ZANO HS which has a specific surface are of 30-40 m 2 /gr and a primary particle size (calculated) of about 25-35 nanometers. The homogeneous particle size distribution of the nanometer sized particle and its fine primary particle size result in good transparency. The nanometer sized zinc oxide particles are broad spectrum UV absorbers (UV-A and UV-B) which is not the case for micro fine TiO2 and organic UV absorbers. It also has anti-bacterial properties and is mildew resistant. 
         [0102]    An alternate embodiment utilizes zinc oxide having an average particle size of 60 nanometers (calculated via SSA measurement) sold under the trade name of NANOGARD by Nanophase Technologies Corporation, in Romeoville, Ill. Although it is sold as a white powder, the nanometer sized particles in low concentrations utilized in the preferred embodiments of the instant invention appear transparent. 
         [0103]    The zinc oxide in at least one preferred embodiment of the present invention is present in an effective amount of up to 1.0 percent by weight of the total composition. The more preferred embodiments of the invention utilizes an effective amount of glycerin ranging from 0.001 to 1.0 percent by weight, and more preferably in a range of from to 0.005 to 0.6 percent by weight, and more preferably in a range of from between 0.01 to 0.4 percent by weight, and more preferably between 0.05 to 0.2 percent by weight based on the total weight of the composition. 
       Propellant: 
       [0104]    A preferred method of application is by using an aerosol containing a propellant such as carbon dioxide, a hydrocarbon (for example mixtures of propane isobutane), a fluorocarbon, difluoroethane, and compressed air. One preferred hydrocarbon is a propane/isobutane. 
         [0105]    In one preferred embodiment, a pressurized liquid propellant is utilized as a carrier to apply the composition. A commercial liquid hydrocarbon propellant can be selected which is compatible with the preferred composition. A commercial liquid hydrocarbon propellant is selected from the group consisting of A-31, A-46, A-55, A-70, or A-108, and/or propane/isobutane/butane blends, with A-46 and A-70 being the most preferred propellant for use with particular compositions. The composition may contain up to 30 weight percent of the propellant, and more preferably from 5 to 20 weight percent of the propellant. Moreover the composition can be formulated as a premix liquid concentrate and mixed with a desired amount of propellant. For example, a typical formula may contain about 12 percent by weight of a premix liquid concentrate and about 88 percent by weight of a selected propellant. As an alternative, a nonliquifiable propellant such as pressurized air, N 2 , CO2 may also be used. 
         [0106]    The composition may contain up to 99.9 weight percent of propellant, and more preferably from 0 to 90 weight percent of propellant and more preferably from about 80 to 90 wt % propellant. 
       Fragrances 
       [0107]    Although not required, an effective amount of one or more fragrances, such as vanilla, bubble gum, orange, fruity bouquet and the like may be added to the instant invention to impart a desirable scent to the product. Preferably the fragrance is present in an amount of up to 2 percent by weight, and more preferably of from between 0.001 to 1.0 percent by weight, and more preferably of from between 0.01 to 0.5 percent by weight. 
       Dyes 
       [0108]    As an option, a dye can be added to the composition to provide a desirable color or tint. Of course, it is contemplated that an effective amount could comprise more or less dye or tint up to 1% of the total weight of the composition. 
         [0109]    Colorants suitable for use in the instant composition include metallized azos such as barium or calcium salts, naphthol, pyrazolones, rhodamines, quinacridones, phthalocyanines, phthalocyanines, pigments including the magnesium salts, lead chromes and silicochromates, zinc chromes, barium chromate, strontium chromate, titanium nickel yellow, liminites, haematites, magnetites, micaceous oxides of iron, iron ferreites and Prussian blue. 
       Preservatives: 
       [0110]    A biocide, such as DANTOGARD (DMDM Hydantoin) or TROYSAN 395 can be optionally used as a preservative in the product. The biocide is not a necessary component to provide a functional composition for use on surfaces; however, depending upon the optional ingredients added to the formulation, the preservative may increase the useful shelf life to the product. The biocide preservative would be added in an effective amount to preserve the composition product and ranges from 0.001 to 2.0 percent by weight, and more preferably in a range of from 0.05 to 1.0 percent by weight, and more preferably in a range of from between 0.1 and 0.5 percent by weight based on the total weight of the composition. Other preservatives such as polymethoxybicyclic oxazolidine, DANTOGARD, or SURCIDE P may also be useful in the present invention. 
       Application: 
       [0111]    The coating composition of the instant invention was applied to a substrate surface by spraying, dipping, brushing, or spin-coating the surface being treated. 
         [0112]    Stability was determined by observing that the super hydrophobic effect has not diminished and by examining the film under the microscope before and after exposure. 
         [0113]    In one preferred embodiment, the hydrophobic fumed silica nanoparticles are blended into the solvent until completely dispersed and then the zinc oxide nanoparticles are mixed until a good dispersion is obtained at ambient temperature. The mixture is then placed in an aerosol container with an effective amount of a propellant to spray the composition onto the surface to be treated. If used, a fragrance, colorant, or preservative is added prior to adding the composition to its container. 
         [0114]    A preferred method of application is by spraying the solvent/particle dispersion as an aerosol. Suitable propellants are for example hydrocarbon of from 1 to 15 carbon atoms, such as n-propane, n-butane, isobutane, n-pentane, isopentane, and mixtures thereof, dimethyl ether and blend thereof as well as individual or mixtures of chloro-, chlorofluoro-, and/or difluoro or fluorohydrocarbons and/or hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs): Also suitable as propellant as compressed gas such as carbon dioxide, compressed air, nitrogen, and possibly dense or supercitical fluids may also be used, ether alone or combination, and alternatively and combination with other propellant types. 
         [0115]    If propellant is used it will generally be in an amount from about 10 wt % to about 100 wt % of the aerosol formulation. Normally, the amount of a particular propellant should provide an internal pressure of from about 40 to 100 p.s.i.g. at 70° F. The suspended treated silica generally will be in an amount from about 0.1 wt % to about 10 wt % of the aerosol formulation. 
         [0116]    To make the silica coating easier to apply it can be dispersed in at least one solvent preferably acetone and/or aliphatic hydrocarbons and/or other VOC complaint solvents to make it spray able. The solvent may also be selected from the groups consisting of an alcohol, a hydrocarbon, mineral spirits, or ketone. The hydrocarbon solvent aids in cleansing and in the aid of the removal of residual water upon application of the product on a surface. The solvent composition can be in the range of 0 wt % to 60 wt %. 
         [0117]    One preferred method of treatment of a surface with the composition of the present invention is generally applied as an aerosol in a manner so as to deposit fine droplets of the composition comprising the colloidally dispersed hydroponically modified fumed silica particles in a solvent as a continuous coating upon a receptive surface such that the droplets completely cover the surface to effectively merge to form a thin continuous transparent film coating. The film dries by evaporation of the solvent within a few minutes leaving a deposited film of particles in the form of silica particle agglomerates than is essentially transparent. The uniform and transparent film is detachable and renewable. It exhibits dirt-repellency and water repellency owing to high water contact angles sufficient to effect beading water incident on the surface so that the deposited film exhibits soil and water repellency. Moreover, the treated surface is self-cleaning. 
         [0118]    Another preferred method of application is by spraying the solvent/particle dispersion using a power spray gun. 
         [0119]    The composition is applied as a substantially clear hydrophobic self-cleaning coating to a metal, plastic, glass, cloth, ceramic, clay, fiber, concrete, brick, rock, cinder block, paper, film, or wood surface. After application of a uniform coating to the treated surface, the composition cures by drying and evaporation of the solvent forming a coating or film at ambient temperature within 5 to 10 minutes of the application. 
         [0120]    The transparency and haze of the coating produced was measured by a HAZE GARD PLUS instrument for a composition having a concentration of the silica in diluent of 2000 nm. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 % Treated Fumed Silica 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 0.3 
                 0.5 
                 0.8 
                 1.0 
                 4.0 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 Transmittance (%) 
                 93.9 
                 3.8 
                 94.0 
                 93.7 
                 93.0 
               
               
                 Haze (%) 
                 2.35 
                 3.26 
                 3.26 
                 3.22 
                 4.36 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0121]    Tests show transparency can be achieved in coating compositions containing from 0.01 to 1.0 wt % treated fumed silica. Amounts of greater than 1% result in coatings exhibit drag reduction, but not transparency. 
       EXAMPLES 
       [0122]    The following examples provide formulations of compositions in accordance with the present invention and provide examples of the range of ingredient percentages by weight providing an effective amount of the particular ingredients deemed necessary to obtain the desired results in a single application. The examples are provided for exemplary purposes to facilitate understanding of the invention and should not be construed to limit the invention to the examples. 
       Example 1 
     No Binder 
       [0123]    A typical formulation consisting essentially of 0.5 wt % of fumed silica (Aerosil R 8200 from Degussa) in solvent comprising from 10-15 wt % acetone packaged in an aerosol container with 80 to 90 wt % A-70. The final formulation is sprayed onto a painted metal panel. The resulting coating is super hydrophobic with a contact angle greater than 165 degrees. 
       Example 2 
     With Binder 
       [0124]    Another preferred embodiment formulation consisting essentially of 0.5 wt % of fumed silica (Aerosil R 8200 from Degussa) in solvent comprising from 10-15 wt % acetone with the remainder comprising mineral spirits. The formulation was similar to the formulation in Example 1 except that example 2 contained 0.1 wt % of a trimethylsilyl end capped siloxane polymer (polymer NA from Wacker Chemie) as a binder was coated by painting on an unpainted metal surface. The film generated by this formulation showed excellent super hydrophobic property (contact angle&gt;165 degree). The super hydrophobic property was maintained for more than one month under UV light, rain etc. 
       Example 3 
     No Binder 
       [0125]    Another preferred embodiment comprises a formulation consisting essentially of 0.5 wt 15% of fumed silica (Aerosil R 8200 from Degussa) in solvent comprising from 10-15 wt % acetone and the remainder mineral spirits. The formulation was similar to example 1 except that example 3 contains 0.05% nanoparticles of ZnO as a UV stabilizing material. The coating composition was coated on a painted metal surface by using a trigger sprayer. The film generated by this formulation showed excellent hydrophobic property (contact angle&gt;165 degree). The super hydrophobic property was maintained for more than 4 weeks under UV light, rain, etc. 
       Example 4 
     With Binder 
       [0126]    Another preferred embodiment comprises a formulation consisting essentially of 0.5 wt % of fumed silica (Aerosil R 8200 from Degussa) in solvent comprising from 10-15 wt % acetone, and the remainder mineral spirits. The formulation was similar to the formulation in Example 1 except that the instant example 4 contains 0.3 wt % of binder polymer (aminofunctional siloxanes from Dow Corning) as a binder. The coating composition was applied to a painted metal surface by dip coating. The film generated by this formulation didn&#39;t show super hydrophobic property. 
       Example 5 
     No Binder 
       [0127]    Another preferred embodiment comprises a formulation consisting essentially of 0.5 wt % of fumed silica (Aerosil R 8200 from Degussa) in solvent comprising from 10-15 wt % acetone and the remainder comprising an aerosol propellent comprising A-70. The formulation was similar to example 1 except that the example 5 composition was coated on a clear coated painted metal surface by spraying from an aerosol can. The film generated by this formulation showed excellent hydrophobic property (contact angle&gt;165 degree). The super hydrophobic property was maintained for more than 4 weeks. 
       CONCLUSION 
       [0128]    The transparent, uniform film is stable when exposed outdoors to strong UV light, rain, wind, etc. for a minimum time of one month, compared to 3 days for most other polymers including acrylates, urethane acrylates, homopolymers and copolymers of ethylenically unsaturated monomers, acrylic acid/maleic anhydride copolymers etc. 
         [0129]    The foregoing detailed description is given primarily for clearness of understanding and no unnecessary limitations are to be understood therefrom, for modification will become obvious to those skilled in the art upon reading this disclosure and may be made upon departing from the spirit of the invention and scope of the appended claims. Accordingly, this invention is not intended to be limited by the specific exemplifications presented herein above. Rather, what is intended to be covered is within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.