Robust superamphiphobic aluminum surfaces
The researchers report a facile, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly approach to fabricate superamphiphobic Al surfaces.
Hierarchical micro/nanoscale morphology of Al surfaces was formed with CuCl2 etching followed by hot water treatment. After derivatisation of fluoroalkylphosphonic acid (C10F21C2H4PO(OH)2, FPA) monolayer, desirable superamphiphobicity was achieved.
Surfaces maintained superamphiphobic
It was found that the FPA/Al surfaces maintained superamphiphobic under the impinging by SiC flow with a falling height of 30 cm, suggesting good mechanical durability. Wettability measurement showed that the FPA self-assembled monolayer remained integrated up to 300°C, above which damage was observed.
According to the scientists, the approach reported in the paper can be readily integrated into product lines for wide variety of applications.
The study has been published in Journal of Coatings Technology and Research, Vol. 16, 2019.
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