State College, Pennsylvania Patent of the Year – 2024/2025
Spotless Materials Inc. has been awarded the 2024/2025 Patent of the Year for its innovative surface treatment technology. Their invention, detailed in U.S. Patent No. 11883558, titled ‘Formulations and processes to generate repellent surfaces on medical devices’, introduces a novel approach to creating repellent coatings on various substrates, including medical devices.
This breakthrough technology offers a one-step process to apply a repellent coating that effectively reduces adhesion of liquids, bacteria, and other contaminants. The formulation comprises reactive components, a solvent, and a lubricant, which, upon drying, form a bonded layer with the lubricant stably adhered. This results in surfaces that are slippery and resistant to fouling.
The versatility of this coating is notable. It can be applied to a wide range of materials such as polymers, metals, ceramics, and glass. Applications extend beyond medical devices to include plumbing fixtures, automotive parts, and construction materials. The coating process is straightforward, requiring only ambient conditions without the need for specialized equipment.
Spotless Materials Inc.’s innovation addresses a significant need in maintaining hygiene and reducing maintenance across various industries. By simplifying the application process and enhancing surface repellency, this technology promises to improve the longevity and cleanliness of products, particularly in medical and sanitary environments.