lowadhesion

Lowadhesion refers to surfaces or materials that exhibit a low tendency to bond with other substances, including liquids, solids, or biological matter. Such surfaces promote easy release of adhered materials and often have high contact angles. Lowadhesion typically results from low surface energy and reduced interfacial bonding, rather than from slipperiness alone.

Adhesion depends on chemical composition, surface energy, roughness, and cleanliness. Lower surface energy reduces attractive forces at interfaces; micro- and nano-scale texture can reduce contact area and trap air, further lowering adhesion. Contaminants, temperature, and the nature of the contacting material also influence adhesion behavior.

Common approaches include applying fluorinated polymers and coatings (such as PTFE, FEP, and related materials), silicone-based coatings, or other low-energy materials. Surface treatments like silanization and lubricants such as perfluoropolyether can reduce adhesion. Engineered textures can yield superhydrophobic or omniphobic surfaces for broad resistance to sticking. Biocompatible options include PEG- or zwitterionic coatings for anti-fouling.

Applications include nonstick cookware, laboratory ware, microfluidics, packaging, and medical devices where easy release or reduced fouling is desirable. Durability, chemical resistance, biocompatibility, and cost influence coating choice; trade-offs often exist between adhesion performance and mechanical wear or environmental impact.

Limitations include wear and degradation of coatings, contamination increasing adhesion, and environmental concerns related to certain fluorinated chemistries. Lowadhesion is a facet of surface engineering and is commonly combined with anti-fouling or anti-wetting strategies depending on the intended use.