“Never Get Wet” Wonder of Nanotech Fabric

Researchers from the University of Zurich have developed a new fabric that never gets wet. The fabric can be submerged in water for two months and still remain dry to the touch. The secret to this incredible water resistance is the layer of silicone nanofilaments, which are highly chemically hydrophobic. The spiky structure of the 40-nanometre-wide filaments strengthens that effect, to create a coating that prevents water droplets from soaking through the coating to the polyester fibres underneath.
A similar combination of water-repelling substances and tiny nanostructures is responsible for many natural examples of extreme water resistance, such as the surface of Lotus leaves.
Not only could the fabric create a self-cleaning clothing; according to preliminary experiments, it reduces drag in water by 20%. (hint Michael Phelps)

Source:
www.gizmodo.com
www.newscientist.com