A facile method to prepare a superhydrophobic magnesium alloy surface

Abstract

The application of superhydrophobic materials has been handicapped by complex processes and poor environmental friendliness. Magnesium alloys are widely used in daily production due to their low density and good casting properties. A facile and environmentally friendly method was proposed to prepare a superhydrophobic layer with coral-like microstructure on the surface of AZ91D magnesium alloy by high temperature heating. The prepared superhydrophobic surface has a contact angle of 159.1° and a rolling angle of 4.8°. The corrosion current of superhydrophobic surface has been reduced by about two orders of magnitude relative to the magnesium alloy substrate and its inhibition efficiency is 96.94%, which demonstrates its great corrosion resistance. In addition, the superhydrophobic surface has great thermal stability. When the temperature rises to 190 °C, the contact is still above 150°. Excellent self-cleaning and advantages in preparation efficiency, environmental protection and cost-effectiveness will boost its good application prospects.