Multi-walled carbon nanotubes enhanced superhydrophobic MWCNTs-Co/a-C:H carbon-based film for excellent self-cleaning and corrosion resistance

Abstract

A robust superhydrophobic MWCNTs-Co/a-C:H carbon-based film was successfully fabricated for the first time by a safe technology, namely electrochemical deposition. The multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and Co nano-particles were confirmed to tailor a micro-nanoscale hierarchical surface and nanocrystallite/amorphous microstructure. The resulting MWCNTs-Co/a-C:H carbon-based film exhibited complete water repellency with the contact angle (158.1°) and much smaller sliding angle (2.98°), fairly strong mechanical property, excellent corrosion resistance and self-cleaning ability. This research highlights a promising route for the preparation of robust superhydrophobic film, providing potential uses including self-cleaning, antifouling and anti-corrosion applications such as ship hulls and aeroplane wings.