Robust Anti-Icing Superhydrophobic Composite Coating Using Carbon Nanofibers/Polyvinylidene Fluoride/Polytetrafluoroethylene via Supercritical Fluid Processing

Abstract

A highly efficient superhydrophobic composite coating was developed by applying a blend of carbon nanofibers (CNFs), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) onto galvanized steel (GS) plates using the supercritical fluid processing method. This investigation is the first to showcase the superhydrophobic and anti-icing capabilities of the CNF/PVDF/PTFE composite, highlighting the effectiveness of supercritical fluid processing for advanced surface coating applications. The optimized 1 wt% CNF in the CNF/PVDF/PTFE composite coating exhibited a water contact angle (WCA) of 162.1°, highlighting its superior water-repellent and self-cleaning properties. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy revealed a unique peak at 3711 cm⁻¹ corresponding to the surface-OH functional group, enhancing the adhesion to the substrate, critical for long-term durability and practical applications. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) showed a surface roughness (Ra) of 4.87 nm, indicating a well-structured, uniform nanostructure crucial for hydrophobic behavior. The anti-icing performance of the composite was tested at −10°C, demonstrating its ability to resist ice formation and reduce surface adhesion, making it ideal for cold-environment applications. This study highlights the potential of the CNF/PVDF/PTFE composite as a next-generation material for self-cleaning and anti-icing technologies.