Flexible and mechanically robust superhydrophobic silicone surfaces with stable Cassie–Baxter state

Abstract

Durable non-wetting surfaces require high surface roughness on the nano- or micrometer scale, which is inherently fragile and easily removed by an external force. Elastic materials have potential advantages for constructing superhydrophobic surfaces with abrasion resistance since after friction or force deformation they often rebound to their original structure rather than undergoing degradation. Here we present a large-scale fabrication of free-standing silicone monoliths with a stable Cassie–Baxter state under mechanical stress cycles. The obtained elastic silicone retains excellent mechanical durability with constant super liquid-repellent after high external pressure, knife-scratch, and abrasion cycles with sandpaper. Furthermore the obtained silicone demonstrates high tolerance to continuous contact with extremely corrosive solutions, and also shows self-cleaning properties in air or under oil.