Millions of tiny, rough, water-repellent hairs adorn its body, creating an ingenious oxygen reservoir and acting as a protective barrier between the spider's lungs and the water. This incredibly thin layer of air called a plastron, has now inspired researchers to develop a superhydrophobic surface. A collaborative team of researchers led by the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), the Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard, the Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg in Germany, and Aalto University in Finland have achieved a breakthrough. They have developed a superhydrophobic surface with a stable plastron that can last for months beneath the water's surface, opening up a range of applications in biomedicine and other industries.[1f509155]
FendX, a nanotechnology company, has been granted a patent in China to protect its REPELWRAP(TM) film. The patent strengthens the company's intellectual property position and coverage for its nanotechnology and future products. The patent, entitled 'Omniphobic Surfaces with Hierarchical Structures, and Methods of Making and Uses Thereof,' is licensed exclusively by FendX from McMaster University. The film is a protective surface coating that repels pathogens and reduces their transmission on contaminated surfaces. FendX is also developing a spray nanotechnology to repel and kill pathogens on surfaces. The company is conducting research and development activities in collaboration with industry-leading partners, including McMaster University. FendX holds an exclusive worldwide license for its technology and IP portfolio from McMaster University.[55097e0a]