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Fabrication of Superhydrophobic Metal Surfaces for Anti-Icing Applications
Published on: August 15, 2018
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Self-assembling particle-siloxane coatings for superhydrophobic concrete
Ismael Flores-Vivian1, Vahid Hejazi, Marina I Kozhukhova
1Department of Civil Engineering and Mechanics and ‡Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Wisconsin , Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 53201, United States.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|November 20, 2013
Summary
Researchers developed a novel method to create hydrophobic concrete using siloxane oil emulsions and additives like metakaolin or silica fume. This water-repellent concrete offers significantly enhanced durability for structures and pavements.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Civil Engineering
- Surface Chemistry
Background:
- Concrete's inherent hydrophilic nature compromises structural durability due to water penetration.
- Developing water-repellent concrete is crucial for extending the lifespan of infrastructure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize hydrophobic and superhydrophobic concrete using novel emulsion-based coatings.
- To investigate the effect of surface modifications on concrete's water repellency.
- To develop a theoretical model predicting surface properties' impact on water contact angles.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of hydrophobic emulsions with polymethyl-hydrogen siloxane oil, metakaolin (MK) or silica fume (SF), and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibers.
- Application of single- and double-layer hydrophobic coatings on portland cement mortar tiles.
- Characterization using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and measurement of water contact angle (CA) and roll-off angle.
Main Results:
- Successfully synthesized hydrophobic and superhydrophobic concrete coatings.
- Maximal water contact angle (CA) of 156° achieved with MK-based emulsion and PVA fibers.
- Developed a theoretical model correlating surface roughness and composition with CA.
Conclusions:
- The developed hydrophobic coatings significantly enhance concrete's water repellency.
- Hydrophobic concrete exhibits superior durability compared to conventional concrete.
- This technology holds broad application potential in civil and materials engineering for improved infrastructure longevity.
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