2. Dirt Repellent Surfaces using Nature as a Model
Many plants have leaves with a rough surface that naturally repel water. As water runs off the leaves in little beads, it also washes away dirt. Technological advancements allow scientists to replicate this water-repellent effect in materials such as house paint; tiles; glass panes; plastic sheets; and roof tiles. The result: materials that naturally repel dirt and are therefore self-cleaning or require minimal effort to clean.