ACS Chemistry for Life reports that scientists have developed a new hydrophilic coating for golf balls that improves their performance on both dry and wet courses by modifying the interaction between the ball and the grass. Created by Thomas J. Kennedy III, this coating increases the ball’s surface energy, allowing it to slow down on dry, fast greens and speed up on wet, sluggish ones. This innovation ensures a more consistent putting experience, reducing the influence of course conditions on a player’s skill. Kennedy’s work could improve the accuracy of golf balls and even be applied to solar panels for better cleaning. The new coating adheres to USGA standards, offering a boost to skilled golfers without altering the fundamental nature of the game. They write:
This specialized golf ball looks and feels smooth, but a close examination under a standard light microscope reveals tiny crystals of absorbent silica and polymers dotting the surface. Thomas J. Kennedy III
The upcoming U.S. Open has professional golfers and spectators looking forward to getting on the green. But the grass’ condition, regardless of a player’s skill, can drastically skew the chances of a winning putt. Now, scientists can slow the roll of a golf ball on a lightning-fast, dry course and speed it up on a sluggish, wet course thanks to a coating that soaks up water molecules without interfering with the ball’s aerodynamics. […]
Previously, Kennedy, a polymer chemist and inventor, developed state-of-the-art golf balls that optimized long-distance performance in the air. But with his new project, he focuses on the interaction between the ball and the grass. “Golf in many ways is a surface interaction game,” he says, “with the putter imparting spin rates on the ball, as well as the grass affecting how fast or slow the ball rolls toward the hole.” […]
Kennedy has provisional patents for the use of the hydrophilic coating on golf balls and solar panels. In a few months, he says these innovative golf balls may make an appearance on a golf course near you.
