BIOMIMAT II

Objective

On the one hand, the project will assess the cleanability of the prototypes developed within BIOMIMAT I against more complex residue deposits. In addition, other potential natural models that could be replicated will be identified in order to adapt hygienic functionalisation to these new residues. On the other hand, work will be carried out on the cleanability assessment method using cleaning and disinfection conditions that are more similar to industrial settings, such as times or the use of detergents.

Activities

Search for nature-inspired surfaces for the removal of complex residues at industrial level.
Selection and design of biomimetic solutions for the removal of complex residues.
Optimisation of the cleanability assessment protocol.
Assessment of the hygienic capacity of biomimetic surfaces.
Dissemination and documentation.
Transfer and promotion of results.

Results

The prototypes were subjected to a standardised soiling process using a complex food residue of a protein and fatty nature. The degree of cleaning was assessed by analysing the removal of residual fluorescence on the surface. The results obtained indicate that the microtexturing of PU, inspired by the Calathea zebrina plant, does not provide a significant improvement in its ease of cleaning. It is therefore considered necessary to continue researching other surface characteristics which, in combination with topography, may be related to surface cleanability.

The results obtained show that the hydrophilic properties achieved through a coating, rather than through microtexturing, are a promising solution for optimising surface cleaning. However, it is necessary to develop materials with more durable and stable hydrophilicity that can adapt to the practical requirements of today’s industrial environments.