Abstract: A method for in situ production of antimicrobial filtration membranes that uses self-assembly of surfactants such as block copolymers as a template. The mesophase structure (for example hexagonal or lamellar) can be determined, and membrane pore size can be controlled in the nanometer range, by changing the block copolymer and the amounts of the components such as the block copolymer, aqueous solution, monomer, crosslinker, and initiator. The monomer phase cures in the template and there is no need for organic solvents and coagulation bath or other post-modification. As-synthesized membranes were found to have pore sizes with a narrow size distribution in the range of 3-4 nm with a molecular weight cutoff of 1500 g/mol and displayed both excellent fouling resistance and high permeance of water, vastly outperforming a conventional NIPS UF membrane. The monomer can comprise a quaternary ammonium group so that the membrane is antibacterial.

Abstract: A method for in situ production of antimicrobial filtration membranes that uses self-assembly of surfactants such as block copolymers as a template. The mesophase structure (for example hexagonal or lamellar) can be determined, and membrane pore size can be controlled in the nanometer range, by changing the block copolymer and the amounts of the components such as the block copolymer, aqueous solution, monomer, crosslinker, and initiator. The monomer phase cures in the template and there is no need for organic solvents and coagulation bath or other post-modification. As-synthesized membranes were found to have pore sizes with a narrow size distribution in the range of 3-4 nm with a molecular weight cutoff of 1500 g/mol and displayed both excellent fouling resistance and high permeance of water, vastly outperforming a conventional NIPS UF membrane. The monomer can comprise a quaternary ammonium group so that the membrane is antibacterial.

Abstract: Winter icing can adversely impact transportation systems (aircrafts, drones, trains, etc.), infrastructure, and energy systems, among many other things. Existing ice-shedding coatings generally suffer from low durability under various mechanical, chemical, and environmental stresses. The polyurethane-based, stress-localized ice-shedding coatings described herein present a novel material paradigm to develop highly durable ice-shedding coatings capable of withstanding harsh aerospace and other industrial conditions. By optimizing the chemical composition and processing of the coating, a uniform, highly durable, polyurethane-based ice-shedding coating has been achieved that can be applied to a variety of surfaces. These coatings have been comprehensively tested, including ice adhesion strength measurements, ice-shedding capabilities in an icing wind tunnel, and a set of mechanical, chemical and environmental durability tests.