Robust Micro/nano Papilla-Structured Superhydrophobic Surfaces for Efficient Photothermal Anti-/Deicing

Ice accumulation in cold environments poses significant risks to the safety and reliability of outdoor systems, underscoring the need for efficient and passive anti/deicing strategies. In this study, a photothermal superhydrophobic surface (PCB@PAl) featuring lotus leaf-inspired micro/nano papilla structures was fabricated using carbon black (CB) as the photothermal agent. The effects of varying micro-to-nano CB mass ratios on surface wettability (at both room and subzero temperatures), light absorption, and photothermal performance were systematically evaluated. The surface with a 3:2 CB mass ratio (PCB@PAl 3-2) demonstrated the best overall performance, exhibiting excellent photothermal conversion efficiency, extended freezing delay, enhanced anti-icing, and deicing capabilities under 1 sun illumination compared to conventional superhydrophobic surfaces. Durability tests confirmed the retention of superhydrophobicity after 10 icing/deicing cycles and 200 cm of sandpaper abrasion. These results provide valuable guidance for the development of durable, solar-responsive coatings for energy-efficient anti/deicing applications in aerospace, power systems, and cold-region infrastructure.