Researchers from the Soft Matter and Wetting group received the Innovation Prize at the Department of Applied Physics

Sakari Lepikko and Mariia Kiesleva, winners of the innovation Prize at Department of Applied Physics

Every year, the Department of Applied Physics at Aalto University awards the PHYS Innovation Prize to an innovation with significant commercial promise. This year, the prize was awarded to Dr. Mariia Kiseleva, Dr. Sakari Lepikko, and Professor Robin Ras from the Soft Matter and Wetting group for their development of a transparent surface that repels various types of droplets, including fog.

The innovative surface developed by the team actively repels droplets and contaminants, making it useful for self-cleaning applications. This unique combination of excellent optical properties and exceptional repellency has potential applications in optical sensors, lenses, protective screens, and windshields. Additionally, the surface can be created without environmentally harmful PFAS materials, making it scalable and environmentally friendly.

The innovation stems from Kiseleva's experience in the medical device industry and Lepikko's expertise in superhydrophobic surfaces. The team is currently seeking funding for commercialization and exploring industry partnerships. Individually, Kiseleva plans to continue her research at Aalto, while Lepikko aims to apply his expertise in the startup world.

Read full article at Aalto University website: Surface repelling different kinds of drops and fog lands Innovation Prize at Department of Applied Physics | Aalto University