Biomimetic super durable and stable surfaces with superhydrophobicity

Owing to their specialised functions and various potential applications, bioinspired superwettable surfaces have captured much attention. Nevertheless, superhydrophobic surfaces are vulnerable to destruction under various harsh conditions when applied in industry and life science, limiting larger-scale applications. In a new paper, the subject of prolonging lifetime is comprehensively discussed by means of analysing the breakdown mechanism, which is influenced by the parameters of surface structures.

Introduction of chemically stable superhydrophobic coatings

First of all, the mechanical durability of surfaces can be highly enhanced to endure mechanical damage, through introducing elastic materials and exceptionally stable rough structure. Secondly, chemically stable superhydrophobic coatings are introduced to resist UV ultraviolet irradiation, acid/base/salt solutions and high temperatures.Thirdly, a certain number of vital advances are summarised regarding surface self-healing properties, which can greatly prolong the service life of surfaces through releasing low surface energy agents and regenerating topographic structures.

Easy repairability beneficial for chemical damage resistance

Last but not least, the easy repairability of superhydrophobic coatings is beneficial for chemical damage resistance on account of the fast restoration of original characteristics. Conclusions and outlooks concerning constructing super stable and durable bioinspired superwettable surfaces are revealed and discussed in the review, aimed at extending the application of these surfaces to our daily life and industrial manufacture.

The study is published in: Journal of Materials Chemistry A, Issue 35, 2018.

Image source: Pixabay

Event tip

The seminar bio-based raw materials in November 2018 will give participants a comprehensive overview about the current availability of bio-based raw materials for the coatings industry.