Metallaboroxine Siloxane Macrocycles: An Approach to Superhydrophobic Materials

High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide Gallium- and tin-based metallaboroxines with formyl CH═O groups react with aminopropyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxanes via Schiff-base coupling to yield inorganic−organic cyclic metallaboroxine siloxanes. These oligomers were characterized by NMR and IR spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and viscometry. The molecular mass averages were determined by SEC analysis, and the visualization of individual rings in cyclic metallaboroxine siloxane was also proved by STM. These highly soluble metallaboroxine siloxanes were used for the deposition of thin layers by spin-coating to provide hydrophobic coatings with water contact angles (WCAs) up to 132°. Formulations of metallaboroxine@SiO 2 NPs were also developed and used for the deposition of thin layers by spin- and dip-coating to yield superhydrophobic coatings. Modified filter paper showed superhydrophobicity while maintaining a highly oleophilic character, which allowed selective absorption of oil from water−oil mixtures.