Fabrication of superhydrophobic coatings by low-temperature sintering of Ag nanoparticle paste

Ag nanoparticle paste was used to fabricate mechanically durable superhydrophobic surfaces via sintering. A facile method was first adopted to synthesize the Ag nanoparticle paste. To obtain multi-level hierarchical superhydrophobic surfaces, a stainless steel mesh was introduced to the sintering process of the Ag nanoparticle paste. The morphology of the steel mesh was replicated onto the Ag surface under sintering pressure, forming a first-level surface roughness. Using low-temperature sintering, a bond was created between the Ag nanoparticles, enhancing the mechanical durability of the as-prepared surfaces. The gap between the Ag nanoparticles was retained under low pressure, leading to a high surface roughness, which is beneficial for preparing superhydrophobic surfaces. After modification with stearic acid, the as-fabricated Ag coatings exhibited good superhydrophobicity, long-term durability, and mechanical stability. The superhydrophobic Ag coatings can also be fabricated on different substrates successfully. Thus, this type of superhydrophobic coating has promising prospects in practical applications. • A superhydrophobic coating was fabricated via sintering of Ag nanoparticles. • Stainless steel mesh was introduced to enhance surface roughness by hot-press. • Multi-level hierarchical rough surfaces performed mechanical durability.