Multifunctional electro-thermal superhydrophobic shape memory film with in situ reversible wettability and anti-icing/deicing properties

Shape memory polymer (SMP) surfaces can achieve wettability transition by controlling microstructure have attracted great attention. However, attempts at achieving in situ reversible switching capability remain largely challenging. This paper aims to elaborate on the preparation of a shape memory superhydrophobic surface with switchable wettability and electrothermal performance. The surface microstructure array is regulated by the shape memory effect based on the electrothermal response, and the reversible switching of the wetting state is realized under the action of voltage and external force. Different microstructural morphologies exhibit different solid-liquid contact states, as well as large/small contact angles and low/high adhesion. In addition, the rapid thermal response, excellent thermal conductivity, and satisfactory durability provide the possibility for anti-icing/deicing. The structure can prevent droplet aggregation, greatly delay the nucleation of droplet crystalli-zation, and remove ice by Joule heat. In short, this work successfully realized the in-situ control of surface wettability which also provided a significant application potential in droplet manipulation, droplet writing, anti-icing/deicing, and other fields.

Automated summary

This study successfully prepared a shape memory superhydrophobic surface with switchable wettability and electrothermal performance. By controlling the microstructure and electrothermal response, the wetting state of the surface can be reversibly switched, making it potential for anti-icing/deicing applications.