Facile synthesis of stable superhydrophobic nanocomposite based on multi-walled carbon nanotubes

A facile approach to fabricate a stable superhydrophobic composite comprising multi-walled carbon nanotubes and silicone rubber has been reported. Contact angle of de-ionized water droplets on the prepared surface was measured with the value of near 159 degrees; while water droplets easily rolled off and bounced on it. Surface free energy of the superhydrophobic coating was examined by three methods about 26 mJ/m(2). The prepared film shows good stability under high stress conditions such as ultraviolet exposure, heating, pencil hardness test, attacking with different pH value and ionic-strength solutions. In addition, remarkable stability of the coating was observed after soaking in condensed hydrochloric acid, 5 wt.% NaCl aqueous solution, boiling water and tape test. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.