Facile fabrication of transparent slippery coatings with dual self-healing ability

Abstract

Slippery surfaces are highly effective in repelling low-surface tension fluids due to their oleophobicity, anti-adhesive, and drag-reduction properties. However, it should be noted that while these surfaces show promising performance under normal conditions, they may lose their efficacy under harsh conditions, particularly in outdoor applications. In this study, we developed a transparent slippery coating with dual self-healing abilities by a 3D-grafting method. The coating can be formed on various substrates, and the coated glass is highly transparent. Additionally, the coating shows exceptional slipperiness on water and most oils, making it highly effective at repelling liquids. Moreover, the coating exhibits remarkable intrinsic and surface self-healing capabilities, enabling it to restore its slippery effect even in the presence of scratches or damage. This outstanding self-healing property results in a long-lasting, durable coating that can resist wear and tear. The exceptional slipperiness and self-healing properties of coating make them suitable for various industrial, medical, and consumer products.