Novel two-step strategy for the construction of weathering-resistant hydrophobic wood to extend its service life

As a renewable biomaterial resource, the applicability of natural wood is limited by its poor weathering resistance. A properly designed multifunctional coating can enhance the weathering resistance of wood while maintaining its natural aesthetic texture. In this study, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), SiO2, and TiO2 were impregnated into a wood sample to fabricate coatings with UV-shielding, transparent, and hydrophobic properties. The water contact angle of the wood in three directions was investigated under different environmental conditions. Results suggested that the PDMS/SiO2/TiO2-wood (PSTW) exhibited excellent hydrophobicity under harsh environmental conditions, which includes sandpaper abrasion, ultrasonic treatment, corrosive solvent immersion, freeze–thaw cycles, and UV aging. Moreover, PSTW demonstrated outstanding repellency to the most common liquids (such as milk, juice, and tea) in daily life. The fabricated hydrophobic coatings improved the mechanical stability, anti-icing, chemical stability, antifouling, self-cleaning, and UV aging resistance of the wood. The proposed method is an effective strategy to enhance the utilization of wood in outdoor environments and extend its service life.