Superhydrophobic Surfaces

Since the first observations and explanations of the 'lotus effect' in nature, superhydrophobic surfaces have received intense and sustained interest in recent decades. With a large water contact angle and low contact angle hysteresis, superhydrophobic surfaces ease self-removal of liquids and particulates from the surface through droplet rolling, jumping or bouncing, thereby holding great prospects for diverse applications such as anti-icing, anti-fogging, self-cleaning, heat transfer enhancement, liquid manipulation, energy harvesting, etc. The essential feature of superhydrophobicity is the synergy between micro/nano structures and a low-surface-energy of the surface outermost layer. To this end, the wide range of micro-/nano-fabrication techniques, surface functionalization and actuation available, as well as their complex interplay, have therefore endowed superhydrophobic surfaces with unique liquid-surface interactions and novel droplet and fluid phenomena, with the consequent enlightening of further applications. In addition, combining superhydrophobicity with optical, electromagnetic and acoustic effects, has also opened up the potential to create superhydrophobic surfaces with unique multi-functionalities such as photothermal and magneto-responsive surfaces, which also stimulate multiple potential applications. Moreover, extending superhydrophobicity to low surface tension fluids, i.e., superoleophobic surfaces, or improving the durability and mechanical properties of superhydrophobic surfaces, are also current promising avenues and challenges that need further exploration. The aim of this Special Topic Collection is to gather original and impactful works in the flourishing fields of superhydrophobic surfaces and their diversified range of potential functionalities and applications.

Guest Editor: Xiaomin Wu, Daniel Orejon Mantecon, Timothée Mouterde, and Fuqiang Chu