Pinecone-Structured ZnO microparticle coatings: A superhydrophobic approach for scale prevention on steel surfaces

This study presents the fabrication of pinecone-structured ZnO microparticles using a solvothermal method, which were subsequently applied to steel surfaces in combination with epoxy resin and perfluorosilane to create a superhydrophobic coating, termed FluoroZnO-Fe. The low surface energy and micro-nano hierarchical structure of the prepared coating significantly enhance its water repellency and reduces its adhesion, resulting in water contact angle as high as 161° and sliding angle as low as 2°. The FluoroZnO-Fe surface demonstrated exceptional stability. Its water contact angle remains above 150° and water sliding angle remains below 5° even after treated with mechanical abrasion, high temperatures, and exposure to acidic and alkaline environments. Importantly, when subjected to heated circulating brine, the FluoroZnO-Fe coating exhibited remarkable anti-scaling properties, achieving a 93.4% reduction in scale deposition compared to untreated bare steel. This research highlights the potential of FluoroZnO-Fe coatings for industrial applications where corrosion resistance and self-cleaning properties are critical.