Endowing Three-Dimensional Porous Wood with Hydrophobicity/Superhydrophobicity Based on Binary Silanization

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Surface Chemistry
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Wood is a versatile natural material with potential in various engineering fields.
• Superhydrophobic wood offers enhanced properties but faces challenges in preparation and performance.
• Existing methods often involve complex procedures or unsatisfactory outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an efficient one-step method for fabricating hydrophobic/superhydrophobic wood.
• To investigate the modification of wood using methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMS) and perfluorodecylsilane (PFDTMS).
• To establish the reaction mechanism and characterize the physicochemical properties of the modified wood.

Main Methods:

• A one-step sol-gel method with in situ growth was employed.
• Low-molecular-weight MTMS permeated the wood's porous structure.
• Acid-base catalysts regulated the hydrolytic condensation of MTMS and PFDTMS to form micro/nano hierarchical structures.

Main Results:

• The modified wood exhibited excellent internal hydrophobicity and surface superhydrophobicity.
• Enhanced water-moisture resistance and dimensional stability were achieved at low fluorine concentrations.
• The superhydrophobic surface demonstrated stain resistance, self-cleaning ability, and good mechanochemical stability, with improved wood strength.

Conclusions:

• The one-step methodology successfully created both a superhydrophobic surface and bulk hydrophobization of wood.
• This approach offers a promising route for functionalizing wood and other porous composite materials.
• The developed method addresses preparation difficulties and enhances performance for practical applications.