Nanoday 2024
Greg Parisi led the group in science outreach for UPenn Nanoday. We had a great time showing kids how different materials have different contact angles and how everyday materials like paper towels can be made hydrophobic by applying certain coatings.
The Science of Staying Dry: The Fascinating World of Superwettability
Have you ever wondered why some materials stay dry, even when they’re drenched in water? In this interactive demonstration, we’ll dive into the fascinating world of surfaces that make water roll, bounce, and stick in the most amazing ways! You'll learn how some materials can stay dry, no matter how much water you pour on them, thanks to their unique structures and chemistry. We'll explore how this science is used to create waterproof fabrics and self-cleaning surfaces. You'll even get hands-on experience measuring how water interacts with different materials and discover how these technologies impact everyday items like non-wetting outdoor gear!