Bionic Fluorine-Free Multifunctional Photothermal Surface for Anti/de/Driving-Icing and Droplet Manipulation

Due to safety concerns associated with ice accumulation, there is a need to develop a durable surface with anti/de-icing properties. Inspired by Gecko skin and Nepenthes, a superhydrophobic photothermal surface (SH-PS) with micro-nano hierarchical structure based on carbon nanotube composites is prepared by one-step laser method. It can be switchable to a slippery photothermal surface (S-PS) by injecting silicone oil. S-PS can effectively delay icing at -20 °C/-30 °C, and maintain excellent dynamic anti-icing capabilities following 28 times supercooled droplet impact (-30 °C). Under near-infrared (NIR) irradiation, S-PS exhibits high-efficiency photothermal deicing and excellent ice droplet control capabilities. Furthermore, S-PS also exhibits remarkable droplet manipulation capabilities under NIR irradiation, even anti-gravity transport (8°) and programmable track manipulation. Notably, after 20 m abrasion, the S-PS still maintains good performances of anti/de-icing and droplet manipulation after infusing lubricant. All these excellent performances can promote its application in a wider range of fields.