Robust coating with superhydrophobic and self-cleaning properties in either air or oil based on natural zeolite

Abstract We have developed a facile and cost-effective method to fabricate superhydrophobic surfaces with self-cleaning properties in either air or oil environment. Firstly, a series of characterizations were conducted to show the reason why hydrophilic natural zeolite became hydrophobic. Then an ethanolic suspension of perfluorodecyltrichorosilane-coated natural zeolite was coated on both hard and soft substrates including glass and filter paper. Field emission scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy and optical contact angle meter were used to characterize the morphology, roughness and wettability of the surface. The results showed that the coating had micro- and nanoscale hierarchical structures, which endowed the coating with excellent superhydrophobic and self-cleaning properties when exposed to either air or oil. Finally, when using double faced adhesive tape to bond the superhydrophobic coating to the glass, the coating remained superhydrophobicity after 30 cycles of sandpaper abrasion test. The robust superhydrophobic coating with self-cleaning properties in either air or oil may have a potential use as an equipment protective coating.