Fabrication of robust superhydrophobic Ni-SiO2 composite coatings on aluminum alloy surfaces

Artificial superhydrophobic surfaces have attracted increasing research interest due to their self-cleaning properties. However, their poor corrosion and temperature resistance restrict their extensive applications. In this study, an electrodeposition method was employed to fabricate a robust superhydrophobic Ni-SiO2 composite coating with temperature resistance, corrosion resistance, adhesion strength, and wear resistance properties on an aluminum (Al) alloy substrate. The Ni-SiO2 composite coating was found to have high hardness by using a hardness indenter with a load of 1000 g. The temperature resistance was investigated by rapid temperature cycling from 100 degrees C to -35 degrees C. Corrosion resistance to acidic and alkaline environments was also presented. Adhesion strength, wear resistance, robustness, and flexibility were tested to show the stability of the coating. The proposed approach for fabricating robust superhydrophobic Ni-SiO2 composite coatings shows great potential for industrial applications.