Preparation of High Fluoride-Free Superhydrophobic Polyester Fabric and Its Self-Cleaning Property

The demand for superhydrophobic fabric for people is increasing with the development of society, but complex manufacturing process, poor durability, and high cost limit their application. This study presented a cost-effective and durable solution by treating polyester fabric with hexadecyltrimethoxysilane-modified silica (H-SiO2) and triethoxyvinylsilane-modified titanium dioxide (T-TiO2). The treatment, achieved through dip-coating and baking, created a superhydrophobic surface with exceptional chemical durability. Fourier-transform infra-red (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analyses were conducted to verify the morphology and rough structure and elemental analysis of treated surfaces, respectively. Performance tests revealed a water contact angle of 163.4°, and contact angle was maintained above 149° after 24 h of corrosion with strong acids or alkalis, 129.1° and 125.7° after 30 soaping cycles and 150 rubbing cycles, as well as superior self-cleaning and anti-fouling properties. These results demonstrated the potential of this fabric for practical applications in various industries, overcoming the limitations of current superhydrophobic materials.