Project description
Development of durable anti-fog coatings based on superhydrophilic polymer networks by C,H-insertion reactionss
Conventional anti-fog sprays often contain substances hazardous to health and the environment, such as PFAS chemicals. I synthesize superhydrophilic copolymers from ionic monomers and diazo-containing crosslinkers that form surface-bound networks by thermal or photochemical activation. The advantage of this approach is that such polymers can be applied from water and crosslink in sunlight within seconds, producing long-lasting coatings that can be applied by non-professionals.
Project outcome
A thermal structuring method was developed using diazo-functionalized polymers, where a heated stamp selectively activates CHic reactivity, imprinting micrometer-scale features (up to 30 µm) inaccessible via conventional photolithography. To enhance scalability, a roll-to-roll process was established, enabling continuous large-area patterning. Additionally, maskless techniques were explored: a modified 3D printer enabled flexible structure formation using a heated tip, and thermal scanning probe lithography (t-SPL) achieved nanoscale resolution, highlighting CHic polymers as promising negative resists. In addressing fogging—a major issue for transparent surfaces in safety and medical contexts—novel CHic-compatible copolymers were designed, combining hydrophilic, ionic repeat units with photo-crosslinkers. These coatings form transparent, water-spreading films upon condensation, are resistant to mechanical and chemical stress, and cure under visible light or sunlight without specialized equipment. They allow for easy repair or reapplication and serve as multipurpose coatings with potential in antifriction and primer applications. Inspired by biological systems such as latex coagulation and blood clotting, a self-sealing polymer system was developed. A vascular-like network delivers a CHic-compatible solution that seals upon UV or sunlight exposure. Autonomous sealing was achieved through a conductivity-based sensor that detects leaks and activates a light source under low-light conditions.
First supervisor
Prof. Dr. Jürgen Rühe
Alexander Bleiziffer successfully defended his dissertation in July 2025.
Publications in livMatS
- Durable Anti-fogging Polymer Coatings Based on C,H Insertion Cross–linking (CHic) That Are User and Environmentally Friendly* early view
Bleiziffer, A., Deussen, F., & Rühe, J. (2025). Durable Anti-fogging Polymer Coatings Based on C,H Insertion Cross–linking (CHic) That Are User and Environmentally Friendly. Advanced Materials Technologies, 2500276. doi: 10.1002/admt.202500276
- Thermal Structuring of Surface-Attached Polymer Networks by C,H Insertion Reactions*
Bleiziffer, A., Kost, J., & Rühe, J. (2022). Thermal Structuring of Surface‐Attached Polymer Networks by C, H Insertion Reactions. Macromolecular Materials and Engineering, 2200345. doi: 10.1002/mame.202200345
- Thermally Induced Cross-Linking of Polymers via C,H Insertion Cross-Linking (CHic) under Mild Conditions*
Kost, J., Bleiziffer, A., Rusitov, D., & Rühe, J. (2021). Thermally Induced Cross-Linking of Polymers via C, H Insertion Cross-Linking (CHic) under Mild Conditions. Journal of the American Chemical Society. doi: 10.1021/jacs.1c02133
* Funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation) under Germany's Excellence Strategy – EXC-2193/1 – 390951807