Robust PFMA/CNTs composite PDMS superhydrophobic film via SI-CuCRP method for efficient anti-icing

A PFMA/CNTs composite PDMS superhydrophobic film with excellent anti-icing effect is prepared by adhering bromide carbon nanotubes to a PDMS film surface forming organic-inorganic composite reinforced structure, and then grafting PFMA brush by SI-CuCRP method. The composite PDMS films with contact angle of 170° present excellent superhydrophobicity, and still maintain the dewetting ability after 120 times friction cycle of sandpaper. After 10 finger mechanical wear and heating self-healing cycles, the PFMA/CNTs composite PDMS films can restore its superhydrophobicity, showing good wear resistance and self-healing properties. In addition, delayed icing time and ice adhesion strength of PFMA/CNTs composite PDMS superhydrophobic film are 14 min 32 s and 61.9 kPa, respectively, exhibiting efficient anti-icing. Besides, due to photothermal conversion ability of carbon nanotubes, the PFMA/CNTs composite PDMS superhydrophobic films present outstanding de-icing effect under NIR irradiation. [Display omitted] •The surface-initiated polymerization process is optimized by SI-CuCRP method to prepare superhydrophobic film.•Organic-inorganic composite structure can improve wear-resistance of the PDMS superhydrophobic film.•PFMA/CNTs composite PDMS superhydrophobic film present outstanding de-icing effect.