Rosin-inspired robust superhydrophobic coating for ensuring stable super-slippery properties

Abstract

Superhydrophobic coatings infused with lubricants to form super-slippery surfaces have tremendous potential for applications in various fields. However, the robustness of superhydrophobic coatings remains a major challenge limiting their application and promotion. Herein, we developed a synergistically reinforced superhydrophobic coating (SRSC) using naturally-derived rosin as an adhesive to graft hydrophobic nanoparticles. The SRSC surface, with hierarchical micro−/nanostructure, exhibited remarkable mechanical and chemical robustness, enduring sandpaper abrasion, tape-peel, water/sand impact, and exposure to acid, alkali, and salt solutions without significant damage. When infused with perfluoropolyether lubricating oil to obtain the SRSC-based super-slippery surface, it could easily repel low-surface-energy and corrosive droplets (e.g., hot water, sump oil, alkali, and acid droplets). Importantly, such super-slippery surface exhibits remarkable resistance to icing. Furthermore, the surface demonstrates self-healing capabilities and controlled movement of oil droplets along specific wetting pathways resembling the shapes of “8” and “COS” under external energy stimulation. These findings are expected to promote the development and application of superhydrophobic coatings in real-world scenarios.