Fluorine-Free and Highly Durable Superhydrophobic Textiles for Antifouling and Anti-icing Applications

Abstract

The toxicity of fluorosilane and the short lifespan of superhydrophobic surfaces have highly restricted the commercial application of superhydrophobic surfaces for antifouling and anti-icing. In this study, a robust and fluorine-free superhydrophobic textile was prepared using a facile spray-dry method. First, the hydrophobic coating was constructed via powerful covalent bonding between epoxy resin and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) using a cross-linker, 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES), which provided amplified adhesion to the substrate. Later, micropapillary and lotus-like structures were fabricated through the deposition of nanosilica, which significantly enhanced the “air pillow” effect of the superhydrophobicity. The obtained superhydrophobic surface exhibited a water contact angle up to 162°, which remained >150° after 1200 abrasive cycles. The nanoscale structure was found to be somewhat protected by large-scale micron features, e.g., fabrics, which hindered the formation of hydrophilic defects due to wear. Furthermore, the droplets remained beaded on the surface after enduring extreme physical and chemical conditions. Interestingly, the icing delay time on the fabricated coatings increased by ∼20 times. We believe that the robust nature and easy implementation of this hydrophobic coating along with its excellent anti-icing performance will make superhydrophobic and anti-icing clothing feasible for use in various practical scenarios.

Bioinspired Interfacial Friction Control: From Chemistry to Structures to Mechanics

“…The skin-friction resistance was reduced by 20~30% in the experiments. Inspired by the surface structure of the lotus leaf, researchers have also prepared various surfaces with micro-and nano-graded structures, which have been widely used in waterproofing [68], ice-proofing [69], and self-cleaning [70,71].…”

Synthesis and Application of Silane-Modified Castor Oil-Based Waterborne Polyurethane as a Fluorine-Free and Durable Water Repellent

“…Polyamide fiber, also known as nylon, is renowned for its excellent wear resistance, high tensile strength, and strong resilience. , These properties make it an ideal material for manufacturing items, such as tents and water-resistant medical textiles. , Consequently, there is substantial market demand for water-repellent treatments for polyamide materials. The waterproof agents available in the market can be categorized into fluorinated and nonfluorinated types. − Fluorine-based waterproof agents known for their strong persistence pose environmental concerns due to their bioaccumulative properties and resistance to degradation, primarily because they contain chemicals like perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorooctanesulfonate. , As a result, global environmental agencies have imposed restrictions on the production and use of long-chain (C8) fluorinated products, leading to a shift toward nonfluorinated water repellents. − …”

Pressure-Responsive Self-Lubricating Ice-Phobic Organogel with High Mechanical Strength from Fluorinated Polynorbornene Networks

“…Traditionally, hydrophobic surfaces of anti-icing materials, which were prepared by simply changing the chemical compositions of the materials, have some defects to restrict their applications . Moreover, the superhydrophobic surface developed later also did not show long-term stable anti-icing performance, owing to the easy damage of the micro-nanostructure on the surface. − Subsequently, slippery liquid-infused porous surfaces (SLIPS) were investigated, which can reduce the adhesion between the ice and the surface by adding lubricants such as paraffin and fluorinated oil into the porous surface. − However, gravity, flowing water, deicing, and other factors could lead to loss of lubricating oil, thereby deteriorating the anti-icing performance. − …”