Laser direct writing–electrochemical anodizing composite manufacturing biomimetic superwetting multifunctional surfaces†

Abstract

In recent years, superwetting functional protective surfaces owing to their exceptional wetting properties have attracted significant attention for their promising applications in anti-icing, corrosion protection, lubrication, and friction reduction. However, these surfaces still face critical challenges, including poor wetting stability, low structural strength, and lubricant leakage. Inspired by the papillary structure of lotus leaves and the high-strength honeycomb-like porous architecture, we employed a laser direct writing technique to fabricate a micropillar array on L-Al, which was subsequently combined with an anodized honeycomb nanostructure, L-AAO. This surface was further modified with organofluorosilane to achieve a superhydrophobic surface, L-AAO@PFOTS, which was then infused with a perfluoropolyether lubricant, resulting in a slippery liquid-infused porous surface, L-AAO@PFOTS@PFPE (SLIPS). A systematic experimental study was conducted to investigate the influence of laser processing parameters, anodizing conditions, and structural parameters on the physical morphology, chemical composition and wettability. Furthermore, the collision behavior and interfacial heat transfer process of supercooled droplets are simulated by COMSOL. Finally, the anti-icing, corrosion resistance, and long-term service stabilities of superhydrophobic surfaces and SLIPS were assessed. This study offers important insights into the development of SLIPS in corrosion protection and lubrication applications for engineering materials in aerospace, marine, and other industries.