a method of using fluorinated - nanostructured poss chemicals as alloying agents for the reinforcement of polymer microstructures , including polymer coils , domains , chains , and segments , at the molecular level . because of their tailorable compatibility with nonfluorinated polymers , nanostructured chemicals can be readily and selectively incorporated into polymers by direct blending processes . the incorporation of a nanostructured chemical into a polymer favorably impacts a multitude of polymer physical properties . properties most favorably improved are surface properties , such as lubricity , contact angle , water repellency , deicing , surface tension , and abrasion resistance . improved surface properties may be useful for applications such as anti - icing surfaces , non - wetting surfaces , low friction surfaces , self cleaning . other properties improved include time dependent mechanical and thermal properties such as heat distortion , creep , compression set , shrinkage , modulus , hardness and biological compatibility . in addition to mechanical properties , other physical properties are favorably improved , including lower thermal conductivity , dielectric properties , fire resistance , gas permeability and separation . these improved properties may be useful in a number of applications , including space - survivable materials and seals , gaskets , cosmetics , and personal care .