Recent advances in the preparation of superhydrophobic coatings based on low-surface-energy modifiers: Diversified properties and potential applications

The self-cleaning properties of bionic superhydrophobic coatings have gained widespread attention and have shown tremendous potential in numerous fields. However, superhydrophobic coatings also have shortcomings such as poor mechanical stability and durability, and are limited in production applications. In addition, a single self-cleaning property is not sufficient for some applications, so the superhydrophobic coating should be given more particular functions. The surface modifier imparts superhydrophobic properties to the surface due by reducing the surface energy. Therefore, based on the principle of wettability of superhydrophobic surfaces, this paper reviews the common preparation methods of superhydrophobic coatings at this stage and systematically compares the advantages and disadvantages of various methods. In addition, for the low surface energy modifiers used in superhydrophobic coatings, the modifiers are introduced and analyzed in detail from surfactants, coupling agents, organic polymers, inorganic substances and natural materials. This paper summarizes the common preparation methods of superhydrophobic coatings in recent years and provides a detailed overview of the current stage of superhydrophobic coatings in life and industrial applications. The limitations and future directions of superhydrophobic coatings in various applications are discussed and pointed out. Finally, this paper presents the current status and prospects of the development of superhydrophobic coatings, providing certain insights and design guidelines for the preparation of superhydrophobic materials in the future.