Multifunctional superhydrophobic composite materials with remarkable mechanochemical robustness, stain repellency, oil-water separation and sound-absorption properties

Abstract

Superhydrophobic materials have attracted immense commercial and academic interests in recent years. However, the poor mechanical durability has restricted their practical applications where high durability is required. Here, a facile one-pot synthesis method was reported to fabricate multifunctional superhydrophobic composite materials with remarkable mechanochemical robustness, stain repellency, oil-water separation and sound-absorption. Their mechanical and chemical durability could be greatly improved by chemically adhering epoxy resin microspheres (ERMs) on 3-D porous skeleton structures of latex sponge. The materials could retain superhydrophobicity after going through sandpaper abrasion, ultrasonication, multiple knife scratch, tape peeling and finger wiping, and exposure to UV irradiation and high temperature. The materials are able to maintain the repellency against strong acid and alkali droplets. The combined excellent mechanical properties, liquid repellency & selectivity, and other functional properties displayed by this type of material have made it a strong candidate for a range of industrial applications.