Effect of a Multi-stage Processing Method on the Composite Properties of a Stainless-Steel Surface

In this study, a multi-stage sandblasting and acid-etching processing method is used to prepare a 304 stainless-steel surface with a loose structure that has the composite properties of superhydrophobicity, low adhesion, anti-icing ability, self-cleaning behavior and corrosion resistance. The surface morphology and chemical constituents of this structure are characterized by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction, respectively. The results show that the micro-scale roughness and different degrees of porosity in this structure play a key role in its superhydrophobicity. The anti-icing properties and corrosion resistance are characterized by contact-angle measurements and electrochemical workstation analyses, respectively. The results show that superhydrophobicity has positive effects on surface self-cleaning, anti-icing properties and corrosion resistance of 304 stainless-steel. Graphic Abstract