Chain architecture-dependent liquid-like PDMS interfaces for multifunctional antifouling surfaces

In this work, liquid-like PDMS interfaces with systematically tailored chain architectures were developed to investigate how grafted polymer topology and molecular weight regulate interfacial organization and antifouling performance. By varying chain length, grafting topology, and substrate geometry, we establish correlations among molecular architecture, interfacial homogeneity, surface mobility, and fouling resistance. Short linear PDMS chains with a molecular weight of 1000 g mol −1 form a relatively dense and uniform grafted layer but provide only limited interfacial thickness. Long linear PDMS chains with a molecular weight of 10,000 g mol −1 generate a thicker grafted layer; however, pronounced chain entanglement and aggregation produce heterogeneous adhesion-prone regions, which compromises antifouling performance on planar substrates. In contrast, dual-end-anchored PDMS chains adopting a loop-like configuration with a molecular weight of 10,000 g mol −1 suppress large-scale chain entanglement while preserving long-chain mobility, forming a stable and homogeneous liquid-like interface with low surface energy, reduced algal retention, and enhanced ice-release capability. Submicron silica particles further modulate antifouling behavior through particle-stacking-induced roughness, with short linear PDMS-grafted silica particles exhibiting the best anti-algal performance. These findings establish a molecular design strategy for engineering durable liquid-like interfaces by matching grafted polymer architecture with substrate geometry, providing practical guidance for multifunctional antifouling coatings.