Surface engineering using PDMS and functionalized nanoparticles for superhydrophobic coatings: Selective liquid repellence and tackling COVID-19

Recently, synthesis and design of bioinspired nanostructured coated surfaces with exceptional selective liquid repellency (superhydrophobicity) have been a fascinating area of research because of their excellent utility in various applications from our daily life to industry level. In this context, superhydrophobic coatings by the use of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) along with functionalized nanoparticles have been reported widely for oil/water separation, antimicrobial ability and antiviral surface coatings to prevent the transmission of contagious coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). PDMS is mechanically stable and highly flexible silicone polymer and can be irreversibly bound to various types of surfaces in order to provide superhydrophobicity. This review highlights the latest innovations in the research area of PDMS based nano-engineered superhydrophobic coatings on various surfaces. Particular attention has been paid toward the application of such superhydrophobic surfaces for the separation of oily contaminants from water as well as antimicrobial and antiviral efficacy in order to reduce the transmission of toxic pathogens including contagious COVID-19. Technical breakthrough and mechanistic concepts behind the success of PDMS based superhydrophobic coatings have been reviewed and discussed in these selected applications. It is expected that this study will be highly useful to lead future research in order to tackle the transmission of viral outbreaks in the coming future similar to the currently ongoing pandemic of COVID-19.