Ternary Micro/Nano Hierarchical Structured Multifunctional Films with Synergistic Superhydrophobic and Photothermal Properties for Anti-Icing/De-Icing Applications
Haihong Niu, Wenlong Chen, Xiaoyu Yao, Hao Cui, Suikang Luo, Md Asik Ahmmed, Ru Zhou, Huan Wang, Lei Wan, Wei Gan, Liangliang Hu
Abstract
Photothermal superhydrophobic coatings are expected to address anti-icing and deicing needs across various fields. However, integrating efficient photothermal performance with stable superhydrophobicity into a single surface remains a challenge. Here, we integrated titanium nitride (TiN) and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) into composite particles (TPMs) with a sycamore fruit-like structure by utilizing PTFE and further fabricated a photothermal superhydrophobic coating (TPMC). The as-prepared TPMC exhibited superior photothermal performance, reaching an equilibrium temperature of 139.6 °C under 1 kW/m 2 illumination. Meanwhile, the structural design and surface modifications imparted TPMC with excellent superhydrophobic properties (contact angle ∼158.5°, roll angle ∼2.3°), thereby providing passive anti-icing capabilities. In addition, TPMC demonstrated various robustness properties, enhancing its durability in practical applications. Finally, we fabricated a stable photothermal superhydrophobic coating that not only provides insights into integrating nanomaterials with distinct morphologies onto a single surface but also holds promise for industrial anti-icing and deicing applications.