Preparation of Superhydrophobic Fabric Based on the SiO2@PDFMA Nanocomposites by an Emulsion Graft Polymerization and a Hot‐Pressing Process

Abstract

AbstractWe report a facile method to fabricate superhydrophobic fabric based on the silica@poly (dodecafluoroheptyl methacrylate) (SiO2@PDFMA) nanocomposites by emulsion graft polymerization and hot‐pressing process. The coated fabric without using resin adhesive demonstrated robust abrasion resistance, UV resistance, efficiently repel various liquids, excellent waterproof property, and good self‐cleaning performance. Intriguingly, the superhydrophobic coating has a little adverse effect on the important textile physical properties, such as the fabric color, air permeability, and color fastness. The robust superhydrophobicity was considered to be related to the following reasons. First, the Nano‐SiO2 and fibers provide micro‐nanoscale roughness, and PDFMA has excellent chemical/ultraviolet resistance and low surface energy. Their combination endows the fabric superhydrophobicity. Moreover, by the mean of hot‐pressing (at 120 °C under 0.2 MPa), the SiO2@PDFMA nanocomposites were firmly riveted to fibers. These results demonstrate a process particularly suitable for fabrics, and the coatings are expected to be practically applied in the textile industry.