Liquid-like transparent and flexible coatings for anti-graffiti applications

Abstract Transparent, durable and smooth coatings with anti-fouling properties are highly desirable for many applications e.g. windows and touch screens. However, most of smooth anti-fouling coatings are limited by complicated preparation and application conditions such as synthesis at high temperatures or curing under ultraviolet irradiation. In this paper, two kinds of siloxane were cross-linked to form a highly transparent anti-fouling coating, which can be rapidly applied on different substrates by a facile brushing process (~3 min for curing) at room temperature. This coating has excellent anti-graffiti properties for liquids with complex components such as water-based and oil-based inks, furthermore, it also exhibits good flexibility, anti-reflection and anti-corrosion properties. The durability test shows that the performance of the coating remains unchanged under various harsh environments. This work would provide a pathway for developing solid and smooth anti-fouling coating, which is expected to be quickly applied in practice due to its simple principle and rapid preparation.