One-step fabrication of superhydrophobic surface on beryllium copper alloys and corrosion protection application

Superhydrophobic surfaces have a wide application prospect in the future industrial production due to its special abilities. The fabrication of superhydrophobic coating on metal surfaces can improve its performance. A one-step electrodeposition method is proposed to construct nanostructures on the surface of beryllium copper (Be-Cu) alloys, and a mixture of copper chloride and stearic acid is used as the electrolytes. The static contact angle of water on the surface can reach up to 163 +/- 4 degrees, a sliding angle of 1.7 +/- 0.2 degrees. The nanostructure and chemical composition on the surface were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy respectively. The corrosion resistance was tested through electrochemical measurement. It was found that the as-prepared superhydrophobic coating improved the corrosion resistance significantly. In addition, the coating with excellent self-cleaning performance was proved. This method solves the problems of complicated process, improves the efficiency effectively, and the electrolyte is eco-friendly.