Facile preparation of robust superhydrophobic ceramic surfaces with mechanical stability, durability, and self-cleaning function

• Published in: Applied surface science 2022-02, Vol.576, p.151875, Article 151875
• Main Authors: Zheng, Jing, Qu, Guochen, Yang, Biao, Wang, Hujun, Zhou, Liucheng, Zhou, Zhongrong
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Femtosecond laser; Mechanical stability; Micro/nanostructure; Superhydrophobic; Zirconia ceramic
• ISSN: 0169-4332; 1873-5584
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apsusc.2021.151875

[Display omitted] •A robust superhydrophobic surface is fabricated by the direct ablation of a femtosecond laser without extra chemical modification.•The optimal laser parameters for constructing conical microstructures covered by nanopapilla on zirconia ceramic substrates are obtained.•The superhydrophobic surface can retain its superhydrophobicity after abrasion for 8 m, showing superior mechanical stability.•The superhydrophobic surface demonstrates good durability and self-cleaning properties. Superhydrophobic surfaces have aroused considerable attention because of their extensive potential applications, but such surfaces are mechanically weak which is a major limitation hindering their practical applications. Herein, we develop a facile strategy for fabricating robust superhydrophobic surfaces on zirconia ceramic substrates. The robust micro/nanostructured superhydrophobic surfaces are obtained via the direct ablation using a femtosecond laser without extra chemical modification. The experimental results demonstrate that the superhydrophobicity results from the special micro/nanostructures and the adsorbed chemical compounds from the air. Notably, these surfaces can retain their superhydrophobicity after being rubbed with an 800# grit sandpaper for 8 m at a contact pressure of 4.4 kPa, indicating superior mechanical stability. Moreover, the durability and self-cleaning functions of the obtained surfaces are also demonstrated. We envision that this work not only provides a facile and environmentally friendly approach for constructing robust superhydrophobic surfaces with excellent mechanical stability, but also inspires new applications of zirconia ceramics, especially in various extreme environments.