A highly robust, concrete-inspired superhydrophobic nanocomposite coating

Abstract

Durability is still the main issue hindering the practical applications of superhydrophobic surfaces. In the case of superhydrophobic coatings, employing nanoparticles for constructing and retaining superhydrophobic surfaces without lowering the robustness is still a conundrum. Herein, inspired by concrete, which has a high filler portion and high robustness, we fabricated a superhydrophobic coating using a synthesized hydrophobic organic/inorganic hybrid resin and categorized micro/nano fillers with varying sizes. The hybrid resin improved the hydrophobicity and robustness of the coating. Also, by optimizing the content of categorized wearable (silica sand with varying sizes)/functional (aluminum nanoparticles)/low-surface-energy (PTFE) phases, the prepared superhydrophobic surfaces could achieve long abrasion distance coupled with a high retention rate. Also, the prepared sample retained its superhydrophobicity after abrasion by sandpaper (180 grit) for 10 m under a pressure as high as 22.5 kPa or 600 grit sandpaper for 12.8 m under the same pressure or when impacted by 1400 g sand particles from 30 cm. Also, the coating had a strong adhesion of 5B with the substrate. Thus, the designed attractive materials have the potential for self-cleaning, anti-icing, and anti-fouling applications in industries.