Transparent and Robust Amphiphobic Surfaces Exploiting Nanohierarchical Surface-grown Metal-Organic Frameworks

Highly amphiphobic (repelling both water and low surface tension liquids) and optically transparent surface treatments have widespread demand. By combining a rational growth of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with functionalization by environmentally safe, flexible alkyl groups, here we present surfaces with nanohierarchical morphology, comprising two widely differing nanoscale features. These nanohierarchical MOF films show excellent amphiphobicity. We further present three key features. First, we demonstrate the need to use flexible alkyl chains to achieve low drop sliding angles and self-cleaning. Second, our thin (∼200 nm) MOF films display excellent optical transparency and robustness. Third, the nanohierarchical morphology enables a unique combination of additional desirable properties, e.g., resistance to high-speed liquid impact (up to ∼35 m/s, Weber number >4 × 10⁴), thermal stability up to 200 °C, scratch resistance, low ice adhesion for >10 icing/deicing cycles, stability in harsh acidic and basic environments, and capability to remove carcinogenic pollutants from water.