Fabrication of a Highly Stable Superhydrophobic Surface with Dual-Scale Structure and Its Antifrosting Properties

The stable superhydrophobic aluminum alloy surface with dual geometric architectures was prepared by a combination of simple processes of chemical etching, dip-coating, and modification of fluorosilicone. The Al surface with 20 min of acid etching and nanosilica dip-coating has the best superhydrophobicity, which showed water contact angles (WCAs) of >157° and water sliding angles (SAs) of <1°. The superhydrophobic surface showed excellent antifogging, antifrosting, and delayed icing performances, compared to hydrophobic and hydrophilic Al surfaces. Furthermore, the superhydrophobicity of as-prepared surfaces is mechanically durable after 11 tape tests and 120 cm wear (under a pressure of 0.8 kPa). The strong interfacial interactions among the SiO 2 nanoparticles, fluorosilicone-modified polyester resin, and the Al surface contributed to superior abrasion resistance. This method could provide a facile, low-cost, and stable route to fabricate a large-area superhydrophobic Al surface for application in various harsh environments.