One-Step Preparation of Highly Durable Superhydrophobic Carbon Nanothorn Arrays

This study proposes a one-step method for growing superhydrophobic carbon nanothorn arrays (NTAs) directly on various substrates. The fabricated carbon material (named methyl-substituted graphdiyne (MGDY)) comprises sp and sp² carbons in a conjugated-backbone form, as well as methyl groups introduced into the framework as hydrophobic-enhanced functional groups. MGDY NTAs exhibit excellent hydrophobicity (contact angle ≥152°), substantial long-period hydrophobic durability (the contact angle decreased by only 3.2% over 800 days), and acid/alkali tolerance. Owing to the enhanced durability and specific stability of carbon, a superhydrophobic interface can easily be constructed using MGDY NTAs, which can be applied to achieve successful long-term metal-corrosion protection and efficient oil-water separation.