Superhydrophobic coatings based on thermally and chemically stable fluorinated poly(aryl ether)/SiO2/carbon nanotube

The thermal and chemical stabilities are two key factors limiting the commercial application of superhydrophobic coatings. Herein, a thermally and chemically stable fluorinated poly(aryl ether) (FPAE) was used for the first time to construct superhydrophobic coatings by a facile solution spraying process. Distinct nanosheet structures were formed for the FPAE, which after the incorporation of SiO2 and carbon nanotube (CNT) turned into a hydrangea-like structure with high roughness and low surface energy. As a result, superhydrophobic coatings were obtained with the water contact angle (WCA) reaching about 170° and the rolling off angle (RA) reaching less than 1°. The superhydrophobicity was maintained after a variety of rigorous tests, including high-temperature baking, acidic and alkaline solution immersions, ultrasonic treatments, friction evaluations, etc. The self-cleaning, anti-corrosion, and oil–water separation capabilities of the FPAE/SiO2/CNT coating were successfully demonstrated. Therefore, the FPAE is a promising resin for the preparation of low-cost and high-performance superhydrophobic coatings.