Superhydrophobic surface with good anti-icing properties and high durability

Abstract

Ice formation is a widespread phenomenon in nature, and superhydrophobic surfaces, due to their excellent hydrophobic properties, are extensively employed in the field of ice prevention. In this study, silane coupling agent (Si69) is used to modify the petal-like SiO2 surface to reduce its surface energy. An epoxy/benzoxazine/Si69-SiO2 ternary mixed superhydrophobic surface is constructed on basalt fiber fabric using a spray and thermal curing method. Examination of the data reveals that a 1:2 proportion of Si69-SiO2 and epoxy/benzoxazine yields a surface whose hydrophobicity is quantified by a water contact angle measuring 165±2°. The water droplet bounces three times on the surface, demonstrating optimal superhydrophobicity. Compared to samples without the addition of Si69-SiO2, the icing time is extended by approximately 4.83 times. Following 30 iterations of freeze-thaw processes, the surface retains its exceptional water-repellent properties, demonstrating excellent ice-phobic stability. Furthermore, the surface maintains its superhydrophobic performance, demonstrating excellent mechanical durability, even after being subjected to friction with SiC sandpaper (220 mesh) for 200 cm under a pressure of 3.2 Kpa and reciprocal friction for 30 minutes under a 50 g load. The surface can withstand over 12 hours of acid and alkali corrosion, and it also possesses excellent self-cleaning capabilities.