Biomimetic anti-icing surfaces applied to second generation refrigerating systems
Résumé
One action to protect environment in this global climate change crisis is to lower the use of CFCs (ChloroFluoroCarbons) in primary refrigerating systems. To reduce the use of such substances, second generation refrigerating systems using ecological high energy density refrigerant (ice slurry) have been developed. However, such processes need mechanical parts that tend to wear out, damage the surface of the ice slurry generator and consequently lead to high maintenance costs. In addition, its mechanical ice slurry production increases the electricity consumption [1]. To limit these drawbacks, we aim, through a multidisciplinary collaborative project, to develop eco-efficient ice slurry generators with motionless mechanical parts, through surface modifications. Ice particles would be carried away by the flow without adhering to this surface. We target to design, inspired from the Nepenthes pitcher plant, biomimetic non-wetting laser structured stainless surfaces infused by an inert ecological lubricant, leading to Slippery Liquid Infused Porous Surfaces (SLIPS) [2] presenting anti-icing properties. After a review of possible lubricants (ionic liquid, silicone oil, vegetable oil), it was decided to focus on fatty compounds, such as fatty alcohol, fatty ester or glyceride. The first goal is to match the chemical structure of fats and their slippery property in order to identify the most efficient lubricant for our application.
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