Highly fluorinated and hierarchical HNTs/SiO2 hybrid particles for substrate-independent superamphiphobic coatings

Abstract

In this study, superamphiphobic coatings were prepared using a spray-coating method based on highly fluorinated and hierarchical-structure halloysite nanotubes (HNTs)/SiO2 powder. The prepared superamphiphobic coatings could repel liquids with a surface tension as low as 20.1 mN/m (n-heptane). The coating could repel hot water and 68% HNO3, demonstrating excellent superamphiphobic properties. The superamphiphobic HNTs/SiO2 particles were synthesized using a co-condensation reaction and thiol-ene click reaction. These particles possessed a rod-dot micro-/nano-hierarchical structure and a high F content (52.14 at%), which are essential for superamphiphobicity. The spray-coating method was applied to various substrates using a glue and particle system, exhibiting substrate-independent characterization. Moreover, the coatings also showed excellent mechanical, environmental, and chemical durability under harsh conditions. Multiple features, including anti-corrosion, self-cleaning, and antifouling, rendered the coating suitable for applications in numerous fields.