Laser Micro/Nanofabrication of Superhydrophobic Surfaces: Fundamentals, Processing Strategies, and Applications

Laser micro/nanoprocessing has emerged as an effective strategy for the fabrication of superhydrophobic and superamphiphobic surfaces owing to its high precision, broad material compatibility, and flexible processing capability. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in laser-based fabrication of functional wetting interfaces. The two primary processing pathways, laser ablation and laser-induced structuring, are comparatively discussed, with emphasis on the processing–structure–property relationships of metallic, polymeric, and ceramic substrates. Representative applications, including anti-icing and anti-frosting, anti-fogging, corrosion resistance, oil–water separation, and antibacterial surfaces, are further reviewed to highlight the engineering potential of laser-fabricated superhydrophobic interfaces. Despite significant progress, challenges related to processing efficiency, long-term durability, fabrication cost, and process controllability remain. Future research is expected to focus on intelligent process optimization, high-throughput manufacturing, environmentally friendly modification strategies, and multifunctional integration, thereby accelerating the transition of laser-fabricated superhydrophobic surfaces from laboratory research to large-scale industrial applications.