Preparation of Fe3O4/SiO2 Photothermal Superhydrophobic Coating and Its Anti-icing Performance

Abstract:

The problem of ice accumulation on solid surface has a significant impact on both industrial sectors and human life, so exploring novel anti-icing materials is of great importance. In this study, polydimethylsiloxane with low surface energy was employed onto aluminum plates as a binder. Fe₃O₄ and Fe₃O₄/SiO₂ dispersion liquids were separately sprayed to form hydrophobic coatings with photothermal effect. Fe₃O₄ provides photothermal effect and forms a certain micro-nano rough structure on the coating surface. When SiO₂ is added, the hydrophobicity is further enhanced, with a water contact angle reaching 155°. This coating greatly delays the icing time and accelerates frost melting. Under one-sun illumination, the temperature rise can reach 71.8 ℃. The coating exhibits self-cleaning capability, effectively preventing severe contamination. It also demonstrates certain resistance to windblown sand impact and excellent mechanical stability, thereby providing a new direction for the development of anti-icing materials.