Ternary Micro/Nano Hierarchical Structured Multifunctional Films with Synergistic Superhydrophobic and Photothermal Properties for Anti-Icing/De-Icing Applications

Photothermal superhydrophobic coatings are expected to address anti-icing and deicing needs across various fields. However, integrating efficient photothermal performance with stable superhydrophobicity into a single surface remains a challenge. Here, we integrated titanium nitride (TiN) and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) into composite particles (TPMs) with a sycamore fruit-like structure by utilizing PTFE and further fabricated a photothermal superhydrophobic coating (TPMC). The as-prepared TPMC exhibited superior photothermal performance, reaching an equilibrium temperature of 139.6 °C under 1 kW/m² illumination. Meanwhile, the structural design and surface modifications imparted TPMC with excellent superhydrophobic properties (contact angle ∼158.5°, roll angle ∼2.3°), thereby providing passive anti-icing capabilities. In addition, TPMC demonstrated various robustness properties, enhancing its durability in practical applications. Finally, we fabricated a stable photothermal superhydrophobic coating that not only provides insights into integrating nanomaterials with distinct morphologies onto a single surface but also holds promise for industrial anti-icing and deicing applications.