Multifunctional polymethylsilsesquioxane (PMSQ) surfaces prepared by electrospinning at the sol–gel transition: Superhydrophobicity, excellent solvent resistance, thermal stability and enhanced sound absorption property

Abstract

Multifunctional superhydrophobic polymethylsilsesquioxane (PMSQ) surfaces with excellent solvent resistance, thermal stability and enhanced sound absorption property were manufactured by electrospinning. The surfaces with various hierarchical morphologies and hydrophobicity were obtained by electrospinning at the different stages of sol–gel transition of PMSQ prepolymer solution. At the stage with a proper viscosity the superhydrophobic PMSQ surface with a contact angle as high as 151° and a sliding angle as low as 8° was prepared. Due to the excellent thermal stability and solvent resistance properties of the cured PMSQ, the resultant surfaces remain superhydrophobicity after thermal treatment at 300°C and immersion into many solvents. Additionally, an enhanced acoustical performance and ultra water repellency were obtained simultaneously when the traditional acoustical sponge was decorated with the electrospun PMSQ superhydrophobic surface. The robust superhydrophobic PMSQ surfaces may promise practical applications in many fields.