On the degradation of superhydrophobic surfaces: A review

Abstract A review of the superhydrophobicity of engineering surfaces with particular emphasis on the effect of friction and wear on the wetting characteristics is presented. Different theoretical aspects, experimental practices, and numerical modeling techniques are discussed. The problem of stability and durability of superhydrophobic surfaces from both theoretical and practical points of view is emphasized. Also reviewed are recent developments in producing mechanically-durable superhydrophobic surfaces.