DA/TiO2 composite superhydrophobic coatings with enhanced wear resistance and oil/water separation

Despite significant advancements in the development of superhydrophobic coatings on metal substrates, producing durable superhydrophobic coatings on a large scale remains a formidable challenge through a simple and low-cost method. In this study, a robust and environmentally friendly superhydrophobic coating (DTSC) was developed and prepared on the surface of X80 Pipeline Steel through a spray method using a multiple bonding between phytic acid and silane coupling agent and the van der Waals force of PDMS. The morphology, structure and composition of the DTSC were analyzed by field emission scanning electron microscope, three-dimensional profilometer, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The water contact angle of the DTSC is 158°, and the roll-off angle is 2°. Regardless of whether the coating is subjected to 50 cycles of abrasive paper or 14 h of water drops, it still retains excellent superhydrophobicity. It is worth mentioning that the oil-water separation capacity of the superhydrophobic steel mesh is as high as 97%. In a range of polluted environments, superhydrophobic coatings still exhibit exceptional static and dynamic antifouling performance, as well as excellent self-cleaning performance. Furthermore, the coating has a high level of acid and alkali resistance and effectively resists ultraviolet radiation and high temperatures. This work provides an environmentally and economically viable method for the industrial application of superhydrophobic coatings.