Robust icephobic coating based on the spiky fluorinated Al2O3 particles

Omniphobic and icephobic twin-scale surfaces based on the urchin-like fluorinated Al2O3 particles are presented. Combined effect of hierarchical topography and fluorination supplied to the surfaces omniphobic and icephobic properties. The study of the stability of the Cassie wetting state is reported. High apparent contact angles were accompanied with the low contact angle hysteresis and high stability of the Cassie air trapping wetting state. Time delay of the ice crystallization as high as 88 +/- 5 min was established when compared to the ice formation on flat aluminum and non-fluorinated urchin-like surfaces. Crystallized water droplets formed on the reported nano-structured surfaces were easily blown out by the air jet with the velocity of v=3.0 +/- 1.0 m/s, (which is markedly lower than that common for exploitation of aircrafts and turbines). Heated urchin-like surfaces completely restored their omniphobic and icephobic surfaces after thawing. Qualitative analysis of water freezing is supplied.

Automated summary

Omniphobic and icephobic twin-scale surfaces based on urchin-like fluorinated Al2O3 particles are presented, with the combined effect of hierarchical topography and fluorination providing omniphobic and icephobic properties. Study showed high stability of the Cassie wetting state and delayed ice crystallization compared to flat aluminum and non-fluorinated surfaces. The nano-structured surfaces allowed for easy removal of crystallized water droplets by air flow.