Organic−Inorganic Composite Nanocoatings with Superhydrophobicity, Good Transparency, and Thermal Stability

Superhydrophobic, highly transparent, and stable organic-inorganic composite nanocoating is successfully prepared by a simple sol-gel dip-coating method. This method involves control of the aggregation of inorganic colloid particles by polymerization and ultrasonic vibration to create the desired micro/nanostructure in the coating. Superhydrophobicity and transparency of the coating can be controlled by adjusting the initial concentration of monomer and the size of aggregates in the sol-gel. Thus, superhydrophobicity and high transparency can be concurrently achieved in a single coating. The prepared coating also possesses good thermal stability. Its superhydrophobicity can be maintained from 20 to 90 degrees C.