Microstructure-controllable nanocomplexes bulk possessed with durable superhydrophobicity

Based on a simple and convenient 1, 4-conjugated addition reaction, a new class of porous nanocomplexes (NCs) bulk was successfully fabricated without the need for a template via a facile gelation process involving dipentaerythritol penta-/hexa-acrylate (5Acl) and branched polyethylenimine ethylenediamine (BPEI), follow by modification with octadecylamine (OTCA). These NCs exhibited a durable superhydrophobicity and various applied performances. The synthesized pile-up granule size was controlled by regulating the addition of the branched agent (BPEI) and the types of reactive solvents. In addition, the microstructure and mechanical properties of the resultant NCs bulk could be adjusted from a soft and loose structure to a rigid and dense structure. To further endow the resultant NCs bulk with more versatile properties, different functional inorganic nanoparticles were compounded into the controlled NCs gel system to construct multifunctional organic/inorganic hybrid NCs bulk. For example, a magnetically controlled NCs bulk used for oil-water separation was prepared by doping magnetic substances into the loose NCs gel. Colored NCs chalk for fabricating a chromatic superhydrophobic coating was constructed by mixing nanoscale inorganic pigments into the compact NCs gel. Additionally, a superhydrophobic NCs elastomer was prepared in pentanol and could maintain its anti-wetting property after repeated pressing, as well as store air under water. It is believed that the ability to control the microstructure may promote the development of bulk superhydrophobic porous materials. The constructed multifunctional NCs monolith with robust superhydrophobicity holds promise for fundamental research and practical applications.