A review of photothermal and superhydrophobic polymer nanocomposites as anti‐icing nanocoatings

Abstract Freezing and ice formation at low temperatures have always caused numerous challenges in variant crafts such as aeronautical, transportation, power lines, oil platforms, etc. Anti‐icing and de‐icing approaches have been employed to reduce the contrary results of icing on surfaces. Due to the disadvantages of de‐icing methods, anti‐icing techniques are noteworthy, and extensive research has been done in this field. Anti‐icing techniques have been used to prevent ice accumulation or simplify separating once the ice has formed. Superhydrophobicity has the property that can neglect to ice or delay icing on the surface. Nowadays, nanocomposites, one of the most extremely used advanced substances, are used in various industries and usages. In the meantime, polymer nanocomposites as a nanocoating offer innovative solutions for the icing phenomenon by bridging the areas of polymer composite technology, nanoscience, and superhydrophobicity. Additionally, photothermal polymer nanocomposites are based on conventional superhydrophobic materials with high solar absorption rates and have unique anti‐icing properties. In this review, the types of ice were examined in terms of their appearance, formation order, and crystal structure. Also, various theories of wettability and freezing mechanisms were studied. Moreover, various methods of making surface superhydrophobic such as top‐down, and bottom‐top procedures were mentioned. Finally, superhydrophobic and photothermal polymer nanocomposite coatings were explained in‐depth. Highlights Types of ice and its structure were investigated. Kinds of wettability theories and freezing mechanisms were studied. Methods of ice formation prevention were summarized. Superhydrophobic and photothermal polymer nanocomposites were explained.