RETRACTED: Temperature and pH endurable self-assembled camellia-like nanostructure achieved on zinc sheet with superamphiphobicity for fog harvesting

Abstract

Easy-implement and low-cost fabrication of super-hydrophobic/super-oleophobic materials is vital for efficient fog harvesting. In this study, we introduce a simple two-step procedure based on Cu/1-octadecanethiol (ODT) self-assembled monolayer (SAM) modified zinc plates. Intriguingly, the process emulates the natural blooming of flowers: copper particle deposition and subsequent SAM formation lead to the progressive expansion of the surface, culminating in camellia-like nanostructures. The ensuing materials display water contact angle (WCA) and oil contact angle (OCA) of 160 ± 1° and 159 ± 1°, respectively. The formation of a layered petal structure that effectively traps air is recognized as the crucial factor in achieving superamphiphobicity. In addition to enhanced fog collection, the materials exhibit exceptional performance in acidic and basic environments (1 ≤ pH ≤ 14) as well as artificial seawater conditions. Furthermore, they demonstrate remarkable wear resistance and self-cleaning capabilities. The combination of these attributes ensures the robustness and stability necessary for efficient fog collection.