Rapid and Scalable Lubrication Coating for Industrial and Medical Applications via Sequential Dip-Coating

Surface coatings have been widely studied and applied in industrial and biomedical fields to give functionalities such as friction reduction, anti-fouling, and enhanced biocompatibility. However, conventional coating techniques often suffer from limited material compatibility, non-uniform coverage on complex geometries, labor-intensive fabrication, and dependence on specialized equipment. In this study, Swift Lubrication is introduced for Industrial and Medical Equipment (SLIME), a rapid (≈10 s) two-step dip-coating method that employs an UV perfluoropolyether base coat followed by a slippery activation layer. SLIME enables the formation of ultra-low friction surfaces, robust anti-fouling properties, and effective diffusion barrier functionality without requiring intricate fabrication processes or specialized equipment. The versatility of SLIME coatings is demonstrated through their application on 3D-printed molds, high-viscosity storage containers, and various biomedical devices, highlighting their material-independent applicability, excellent biocompatibility, and superior anti-adhesion performance. This is envision that SLIME coatings will serve as a practical and scalable solution for an advanced surface lubrication method, significantly enhancing device durability, operational efficiency, and performance across industrial and biomedical applications.