Preparation of superhydrophobic wood surfaces via in-situ synthesis of Cu2(OH)3Cl nano-flowers and impregnating PF&STA to improve chemical and mechanical durability

Abstract

Superhydrophobic wood surfaces had been fabricated via in-situ synthesis of Cu2(OH)3Cl nano-flowers. The modified wood surface exhibited improved water repellency as evidenced by an increased water contact angle (163° vs 50 to 75° for the control) and a sliding angle less than 5°. The modified wood surfaces remained hydrophobic after 12 h of exposure to strong acid (pH 2) or alkaline (pH 12), and the as prepared superhydrophobic surface was resistant to mechanical damage via 1000 cycles of tape removal and repeated sandpaper abrasion. The modified wood surface repelled not only water, but also milk, coke, and soy sauce, and showed a self-cleaning function. The results illustrate the promise of generating superhydrophobicity for improving the moisture resistance of timber surfaces. This work developed a simple, low-cost, and durable strategy for creating superhydrophobic wood surfaces, which has potential to be applied in wood industry to expand the service life of wood products.