Skin-inspired scalable superhydrophobic coatings with strong mechano-chemical-thermal robustness

Abstract Designing environment-friendly, scalable superhydrophobic coatings with a wide spectrum of robustness in mechanochemical strength, interfacial adhesion, and flame retardancy is critical to low-carbon economy and green environment, especially for green buildings. Simultaneously achieving these preferred functionalities dominated by either interfacial or bulky properties has proved challenging. Herein, we propose an integral skin-inspired triple-layered coating (STC) that resolves conflicting demands imposed by individual features on the structure, component, and thermal property of materials. The STC demonstrates sustained anti-wetting and anti-corrosion even under harsh environments, strong adhesion and anti-abrasion, and excellent flame retardancy, all of which enhance its durability and lifetime so as to eliminate the maintenance and repair, thereby reducing cost and energy consumption. Together with facile spraying fabrication process, our STC paves the way to construct a green and resource-saving society.