Study on the in situ construction of a CuS-based hydrophobic, antifungal, and UV-resistant protective system within poplar wood

Wood is highly vulnerable to moisture, microbial attack, ultraviolet radiation, and their synergistic effects in outdoor environments, which significantly undermine its weather resistance and limit its applications. This study presents a straightforward method for the in situ generation of anti-erosion copper sulfide (CuS) particles on the surface and within poplar wood, markedly enhancing its durability in outdoor settings. The modified wood demonstrated exceptional superhydrophobicity and self-cleaning capabilities, with a water contact angle of 154.3 ± 2.1° and a 50 % reduction in water absorption compared to untreated poplar wood. Moreover, the superhydrophobic properties exhibited remarkable stability, remaining unchanged following mechanical abrasion, chemical (acidic and alkaline) exposure, ultrasonic treatment, 120 h of UV irradiation, and up to 30 days of microbial erosion. Additionally, the modified wood showed strong resistance to UV radiation and common wood-decaying fungi, with significantly improved anti-mold performance compared to other copper-based antimicrobial agents. This enhanced durability is primarily attributed to the firmly anchored CuS particles formed in situ on the wood substrate.