Superhydrophobic surfaces have been intensively investigated for applications requiring self-cleaning and corrosion resistance. The techniques used to fabricate such a coating tend to be costly, time and energy consuming; further surface modification steps are often needed. In this study, a superhydrophobic composite electrodeposit based on a tungsten disulphide nanoparticles dispersed in nickel on a mild steel substrate was successfully developed. At room temperature, the deposit showed a water contact angle of 158.3 deg and sliding angle of 7.7 deg. The effects of operational parameters on surface morphology and superhydrophobicity are discussed. Compared to the substrate, the robust surface of the asprepared coatings exhibited good self-cleaning and corrosion resistance, providing potential for industrial applications.

The mechanical properties of superhydrophobic surfaces based on nickel composite coatings was enhanced by co-deposition of tungsten carbide. After modified by stearic acid, the surfaces showed excellent water-repellence and abrasive resistance.

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