Preparation of hybrid film with superhydrophobic surfaces based on irregularly structure by emulsion polymerization

A superhydrophobic surface originated from quincunx-shape composite particles was obtained by utilizing the encapsulation and graft of silica particles to control the surface chemistry and morphology of the hybrid film. The composite particles make the surface of film form a composite interface with irregular binary structure to trap air between the substrate surface and the liquid droplets which plays an essential role in obtaining high water contact angle and low water contact angle hysteresis. The water contact angle on the hybrid film is determined to be 154 +/- 2 degrees and the contact angle hysteresis is less than 5 degrees. This is expected to be a simple and practical method for preparing self-cleaning hydrophobic surfaces on large area. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All fights reserved.