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This article on waterproof coats was interesting, but the process used by the Turkish scientists would require evaporating the solvent. Should not possible harmful environmental side effects be considered before a new industrial process is created?

Kenneth Crook
San Jose, Calif.

I believe this same phenomenon occurs on the leaves of the common perennial lady’s mantle ( Alchemilla mollis ), to a very pleasing visual effect.

Nancy P. Durr
Cold Spring, N.Y.

I have a question regarding the properties of this superhydrophobic film. Could it be applied to aircraft wings and other surfaces to prevent icing?

Michael Kulhanek
Washington, D.C.

According to the researchers, superhydrophobic coatings could potentially prevent icing on aircraft wings. However, the coatings would need improvement before they could be used for this purpose .–J. Gorman