Bioinspired in situ repeatable self-recovery of superhydrophobicity by self-reconstructing the hierarchical surface structure

Abstract

Inspired by the biological self-recovery mechanism of superhydrophobicity, a new class of waxgel material with sustainable hierarchical surface micro-structures has been reported. After being damaged or removed, the waxgel material can self-reconstruct its surface layer both chemically and structurally, as well as successfully recovers its superhydrophobicity. In addition, it shows non-fluorinated composition, durability to severe mechanical challenges, and self-recoverable surface structures without external input of any kind such as; heat, UV, plasma etc., which distinguishes waxgel from any previous self-healing superhydrophobic systems. This strategy will open a new path for improving the long-term functionality of different interfacial materials.