Fabrication of a superhydrophobic surface on aramid cord fabric via hot pressing titanium dioxide

Abstract Aramid cord fabric, a novel polymer composite material, exhibits high strength‐ and modulus, low thermal shrinkage, and excellent dimensional stability. It has broad applications in marine development, oil exploration, transportation, specialized tires, and other sectors. Despite its extensive use, research into the superhydrophobic applications of aramid cord fabrics remains sparse. Consequently, the development of a superhydrophobic aramid cord fabric material is essential. This study introduces a straightforward method involving the application of TiO₂ powder on the rubber surface of aramid cord fabric using a simple surface sprinkling technique. Subsequent high‐temperature and high‐pressure treatments yield a TiO₂/natural rubber (NR) composite with a superhydrophobic surface. The microstructure of this surface was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and its composition was assessed qualitatively via energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy provided insights into the surface functional groups. The hydrophobicity and self‐cleaning capabilities of the surface were evaluated using a contact angle meter and self‐cleaning tests, respectively. The mechanical durability of the superhydrophobic surface was also assessed through linear abrasion on sandpaper and impact testing with steel balls. The results indicated that increasing the TiO₂ particle content significantly enhances both the hydrophobicity and mechanical durability of the TiO₂/NR surface. At a TiO₂ mass fraction of 3%, the static contact angle (CA) reached 160.1° ± 3°, and the surface maintained its superhydrophobicity after 150 abrasion cycles under 2 kPa pressure. Moreover, the TiO₂/NR superhydrophobic surface demonstrated exceptional self‐cleaning properties. Highlights The CA on the aramid cord fabric surface can reach upwards of 160°. TiO 2 was used as reinforcement filler to form nanoscale network structure on the surface of aramid cord fabric. The influence of TiO 2 filler content on the hydrophobicity of materials was discussed. The prepared materials have excellent hydrophobicity and mechanical stability.