The hydrophobic (water-repelling) polymer chains left in the ink then cluster together, causing the ink to instantly turn solid. Any added functional materials are locked in there, too.

The ink and polystyrene films are hydrophobic — they repel water — so water resists flowing over the film, and instead works its way between the film and the glass, which attracts water.

Breakthroughs, discoveries, and DIY tips sent every weekday. Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. Researchers have been trying to create ultra-hydrophobic materials ...

Detergent molecules made up of components attracted to water (hydrophilic) and others that repel it (hydrophobic). Proteins also use the interaction with water to assemble into complexes.

The reason why water striders, water bugs, oarsman, diving bell spiders, and the like can walk on water or stay dry under it is that they have tiny hairs that prevent water actually coming into ...

Hydrophobic materials are formed based on the chemical concept of hydrophobicity. Hydrophobicity is a term derived from a Greek term ‘hydro’ meaning water and ‘phobos’ meaning fear. Hydrophobic ...