Hydrophobization of Inorganic Materials by Chemical Modification of the Surface

General relationships of the hydrophobization of oxide and metal materials by chemical modification of the surface are discussed. Compounds containing an alkyl or fluoroalkyl substituent and a functional (anchor) group capable of chemical interaction with the support show the highest performance in the surface modification. The main classes of hydrophobizing agents, namely, carboxylic acids, alkylsilanes, phosphonic acids, alkyl mercaptans, and their perfluorinated derivatives, are considered. Papers published after 2000 are mainly cited. The review is intended for specialists who use hydrophobic materials.