Preparation of Durable Polytetrafluoroethylene Superhydrophobic Surfaces by Hot Embossing Technique

Abstract

In this paper, the surface microstructure of screen meshes with different mesh sizes is processed onto the polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) surface using a micro‐nano thermal imprinting technique. Simultaneously, silica microspheres are coated on the screen mesh. After hot embossing, these microspheres adhere to the PTFE surface, enhancing its superhydrophobicity and addressing issues such as shallow microstructure, poor abrasion resistance, and reduced hydrophobicity over prolonged use. Through several comparative experiments, the optimal processing conditions, including temperature, pressure, heating time, mesh aperture, and material thickness, were determined by measuring the contact angle and observing the microstructure. The experimental results indicate that the maximum hydrophobic angle of the PTFE surface is 154°, and the addition of silica microspheres significantly improves the superhydrophobicity and weatherability of the PTFE.