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Updated: Jan 7, 2026

Fabrication of Superhydrophobic Metal Surfaces for Anti-Icing Applications
Published on: August 15, 2018
Robust Micro/nano Papilla-Structured Superhydrophobic Surfaces for Efficient Photothermal Anti-/Deicing
Xuemei Chen1, Lu Wang1, Muxing Zhang1
1MIIT Key Laboratory of Thermal Control of Electronic Equipment, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China.
Researchers developed a novel solar-powered superhydrophobic surface using carbon black for efficient passive anti-icing and deicing. This durable coating shows promise for cold environments, enhancing safety and reliability of outdoor systems.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Surface Engineering
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Ice accumulation on outdoor systems presents significant safety and reliability challenges.
- Passive anti/deicing strategies are crucial for efficient operation in cold environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To fabricate and evaluate a photothermal superhydrophobic surface for passive anti/deicing.
- To investigate the impact of carbon black (CB) ratios on surface properties and performance.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a lotus leaf-inspired micro/nano papilla surface using carbon black (CB) as a photothermal agent.
- Systematic evaluation of surface wettability, light absorption, and photothermal performance.
- Assessment of anti-icing and deicing capabilities under solar illumination and durability tests.
Main Results:
- The optimal 3:2 CB mass ratio (PCB@PAl 3-2) surface exhibited superior photothermal conversion efficiency.
- Demonstrated extended freezing delay, enhanced anti-icing, and deicing under 1 sun illumination.
- Maintained superhydrophobicity after 10 icing/deicing cycles and significant abrasion, indicating excellent durability.
Conclusions:
- The developed photothermal superhydrophobic surface offers an energy-efficient solution for anti/deicing.
- Results provide guidance for creating durable, solar-responsive coatings for aerospace, power systems, and cold-region infrastructure.
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