Ultra lightweight PMMA-based composite plates with robust super-hydrophobic surfaces

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Surface Chemistry

Background:

• Development of lightweight composite materials with advanced surface properties is crucial for various applications.
• Achieving durable superhydrophobicity often requires tailored surface topographies and robust coatings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create extremely lightweight PMMA-based composite plates with a superhydrophobic surface.
• To enhance the durability and water contact angle of the superhydrophobic effect through novel coating strategies.

Main Methods:

• Cast molding was used to fabricate lightweight composite plates incorporating hollow glass microspheres, silica nanoparticles, and aluminum hydroxide micro-flakes.
• Two fluoromethacrylic polymers with methoxysilane anchoring groups were synthesized for covalent grafting onto the composite surface.
• Surface topography was engineered to be compatible with hydrophobic coating deposition.

Main Results:

• The composite plates exhibited excellent bulk mechanical properties and a tailored surface topography.
• A superhydrophobic behavior was achieved with a maximum water contact angle of 157°.
• The hydrophobic coating demonstrated remarkable durability, maintaining the easy-to-clean effect for up to 2000 hours of outdoor exposure.

Conclusions:

• The developed PMMA-based composite material offers a promising solution for lightweight applications requiring durable superhydrophobicity.
• The covalent grafting of functionalized polymers significantly enhances adhesion and long-term performance of the hydrophobic surface.
• This study highlights a viable method for creating high-performance, easy-to-clean surfaces with potential for widespread use.