Superamphiphobic Coatings with Low Sliding Angles from Attapulgite/Carbon Composites

Abstract Preparation of superamphiphobic coatings with low sliding angles (SAs) for liquids of low surface tension is challenging. Here, a simple and sustainable approach for preparation of superamphiphobic coatings with low SAs from attapulgite/carbon (APT/C) composites is reported. The coatings are prepared by hydrolytic condensation of 1 H ,1 H ,2 H ,2 H ‐perfluorodecyltriethoxysilane and tetraethoxysilane with the APT/C composites followed by spray‐coating onto substrates. The APT/C composites are prepared by pyrolysis of spent bleaching earth containing APT. The influences of pyrolysis temperature of spent bleaching earth and the APT/C concentration on superamphiphobicity and surface morphology of the coatings are studied. Carbon nanoparticles are formed on the APT nanorods in the pyrolysis process. The APT/C nanorods are wrapped and linked together by a layer of fluorinated polysiloxane (fluoroPOS). The coatings exhibit excellent superamphiphobicity with high contact angles (CAs) and low SAs even for n ‐decane (CA n ‐decane = 154.2°, SA n ‐decane = 11.3°). This is because the new three‐tier micro‐/nano‐/nanostructure is constructed by the combination of APT nanorods, carbon nanoparticles, and fluoroPOS. Also, the superamphiphobic coatings show very good chemical and thermal stability. It is believed that this study will shed light on preparation of superamphiphobic coatings with low SAs via a simple, cost‐effective, and sustainable approach.