A hyperbranched-topology-mediated self-roughness approach toward robust all-organic superhydrophobic surfaces

Abstract

Biomimetic superhydrophobic surfaces (SHSs) have shown promising applications in versatile scenarios. However, due to limitations of complicated templates, expensive instruments, and insufficient adhesion between adhesives and inorganic/organic nanoparticles, simultaneous implementation of facile fabrication and highly robustness of SHSs remains difficult. Here, we demonstrate a hyperbranched-topology-mediated self-roughness approach to construct an all-organic SHS. Because of the stable covalent linkages, the SHS can be applied for versatile surfaces, exhibiting high resistance to mechanical abrasions and chemical corrosions. Additionally, once wetted with alcohol, the surface turns from superhydrophobic to hydrophilic, enabling the manipulation of liquid and gas motion as well as applications as micro-reactors. This topology-mediated self-roughness strategy paves a foundation for future development of liquid-repellent coatings.