Robust photothermal self-healing superhydrophobic composite coating for durable anti/de-icing applications

Superhydrophobic coatings are commonly used to prevent ice formation and adhesion. However, they often lack durability and can be easily damaged. Herein, a coating that can restore the superhydrophobic properties is prepared. By incorporating hydrophobic SiO 2 nanoparticles in silicone coating, a Cassie-Baxter infiltrating surface structure is formed that endows the coating with superhydrophobicity. Then, mesoporous polydopamine nanospheres loaded with perfluorodecyltrimethoxysilane (FAS@MPDA) are added into the coating to realize photothermal self-healing of the coating superhydrophobic property. The results show that the water contact angles can reach up to 155.5°, and the rolling angles can meet as low as 1.9°. The coating can maintain superhydrophobicity even after undergoing 10 self-healing cycles, and also presents a remarkable photothermal effect with temperature of 59 °C under a single solar intensity. The anti-icing test shows that water droplet freezing time is significantly prolonged (654 s), and the ice adhesion strength can reach as low as 10.4 kPa. Moreover, the coating also demonstrates excellent environmental durability in complex environments such as acidic, alkaline, high and low temperatures, erosion and friction. Due to its efficient self-healing performance, exceptional anti-icing capabilities and excellent environmental durability, the prepared coating holds significant potential for extensive applications.