Biological Influence and Clinical Applications of the Unique Flower Shape of ZnO–ZnS@SA Superhydrophobic Composite Films Grown on Nanorods

Surgical devices inevitably come into contact with blood, bacteria, high temperatures, high humidity, and acidic, basic, and salt environments during use, which can have a significant impact on the device and the operator, so their protection becomes necessary. In this manuscript, novel, highly robust, and superhydrophobic Ni-doped ZnO–ZnS@stearic acid (SA) composite films with extreme repellency to various solid and liquid contaminants, excellent bactericidal performance, and extremely low blood adhesion were fabricated by a simple one-step hydrothermal method. Additionally, the synergistic effect of the in situ generated hierarchical micro/nanocomposite structures on the Zn substrate surface and SA also endowed the film with excellent mechanical and chemical stability, such as ultra-low adhesion, perfect wear resistance, corrosion resistance, heat resistance, and good durability. Notably, the superhydrophobic composite films could be turned into a superhydrophilic film by simple heat treatment. Further, it could revert to its superhydrophobic state by remodification of stearic acid. This unique structure and low surface energy SA modification were found to be the primary reasons for the excellent protection and versatility of galvanized surgical devices in various extreme environments.