Robust and durable superhydrophobic coating prepared via a combined method of laser marking and electrodeposition

Designing suitable surface structures is crucial to achieving long-lasting superhydrophobic properties. In this study, laser marking was utilized to fabricate micron groove arrays, creating the LM sample, which was then coated with a nickel nanocone-shaped structure through electrodeposition, forming the LME sample. Organic modifications were applied to both samples to increase their hydrophobicity. The surface morphology and cross-section structure of the coatings were analyzed in detail, and contact angle measurements indicated the presence of an air layer. A thorough analysis was conducted to compare the hydrophobicity of the laser marked and LME samples, revealing that the LME sample demonstrated exceptional wear-resistant superhydrophobicity. This was validated by various friction wear tests, which were performed using a well-designed testing setup. Moreover, the coating adhesion was assessed through a peeling test, revealing a strong adherence to the substrate. The corrosion resistance of the LME sample was also superior to that of the LM sample, as demonstrated by the results of the corrosion tests. The cost-effective and controllable method of laser marking and electrodeposition used in this study provides a feasible way to develop durable and resistant superhydrophobic coatings on light alloy surfaces.