A simple method to make mechanically robust, adhesive and superhydrophobic surface based on epoxy resin

A robust micro/nano-structured superhydrophobic surface was facilely prepared by applying composite coating consisting of epoxy resin and silica nanoparticles on glass substrates. The whole process only needed bisphenol A-based epoxy resin and silica nanoparticles to be mixed, coated, and dried. Field emission scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and a drop meter were utilized to evaluate its morphology, accurate topography, quantitative roughness, and wettability, respectively. After considering adhesive force and the superhydrophobicity of the coating, it was shown that the best result was gained when the solid content of the silica nanoparticles was 45.5 wt%. In addition, the coating showed excellent surface mechanical stability and acid-alkali resistance which offers great potential for durable application in various fields.