Robust, self-cleaning, anti-fouling, superamphiphobic soy protein isolate composite films using spray-coating technique with fluorinated HNTs/SiO2

Abstract

The practical applications of protein-based materials have so far been limited due to their natural hydrophilicity and high sensitivity to moisture. In this study, we developed a facile surface coating technique to prepare superamphiphobic soy protein isolate (SSPI) films materials. First, fluorinated superamphiphobic HNTs/SiO2 particles (HS-SH-F) were prepared through simple and efficient thiol-ene click reaction. Then, HS-SH-F particles were sprayed onto SPI films while Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) as a medium adhesive layer. The as-prepared SSPI films exhibited excellent repellent liquid (both water and oil) ability. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time for exploring and achieving superamphiphobic property on protein-based films materials. The as-prepared superamphiphobic protein films can repel various liquids even with low surface tension (the n-heptane contact angle is 154.2°, and the slide angle is 9.5°). Moreover, the SSPI films retained great superamphiphobic performance after various harsh conditions tests, such as 20 times tape-peeling test, blade-scratch, strong acid/basic and organic solvents immersion, etc., indicating excellent mechanical robust and chemical durability. Such surface coating deservedly exhibits outstanding self-cleaning property and antifouling function. Therefore, it can be applied in various harsh environments, such as outdoor service and underwater materials. More importantly, this is a scalable approach for a wider range of materials other than protein-based materials.