Surface-Embedding of Functional Micro-/Nanoparticles for Achieving Versatile Superhydrophobic Interfaces

Summary

Although numerous methods have been applied to obtain superhydrophobic substrates, it is still a challenge to develop a universal method for converting arbitrary materials to water-repellent surfaces. Here, we report that direct surface-embedding of functional micro- and nanoscale particles is applicable to fabrication of versatile superhydrophobic interfaces, namely a "glue + powder" approach. Differing from previous understanding of preparing such surfaces, the intrinsic wettability of embedded particles exerts no influence on the anti-wetting ability of prepared surfaces. Instead, the size and hierarchy of microstructure has been considered decisive in the satisfactory liquid repellency, i.e., smaller and rougher particles promote better hydrophobicity. Seventeen types of particles were selected for fabricating diverse surfaces that exhibit exciting functions such as conductive coating, droplet catching, pH-sensitive surface, and multifunctional floater. We envision that the current findings should provide a simplified way to integrate nanomaterials with superhydrophobic interfaces and stimulate new thinking for development of functional materials possessing superwettability.