One-step spraying method to construct superhydrophobic magnesium surface with extraordinary robustness and multi-functions

The robust magnesium surfaces with multi-functions are highly desirable, and the simple and scalable methods to construct such surfaces are urgently indispensable. Herein, we conducted a one-step spraying method to facilely fabricate the robust coating with multi-functions on magnesium alloys. The as-sprayed magnesium alloys surface is superhydrophobic with a static water contact angle (WCA) of 157.0 degrees and a roll-off angle of 6.0 degrees. Such surface has excellent mechanical, chemical and thermal stabilities, even undergoing various physical and chemical damages, including sand impact (10 g min(-1), >= 20 min), water impact (2 impacts s(-1), >= 180 min), abrasion (1.00 kPa, >= 25 cycles), peeling (>= 2.15 kPa), high temperature (200 degrees C, >= 24 h), strong acidic/salty/basic media (pH = 1 similar to 13) and organic-solvent immersion (ethanol and n-hexane, >= 24 h), demonstrating brilliant robustness. Notably, the surface displays multi-functions of corrosion protection, anti-fouling and heat insulation, which will undoubtedly promote the much wider applications of magnesium alloys. (C) 2020 Chongqing University. Publishing services provided by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of KeAi Communications Co. Ltd.

Automated summary

A robust coating with multi-functions was facilely fabricated on magnesium alloys surface using a one-step spraying method. The superhydrophobic surface displayed excellent mechanical, chemical and thermal stabilities, and resisted various physical and chemical damages, showcasing remarkable robustness. The surface exhibited corrosion protection, anti-fouling and heat insulation functions, which will undoubtedly expand the applications of magnesium alloys.