Surface construction of fluorinated TiO₂ nanotube networks to develop uvioresistant superhydrophobic aramid fabric

Abstract

nanotubes (TNTs) to develop an air-permeable, UV-protective, and superhydrophobic coating. The as-prepared superhydrophobic aramid fabric exhibited highly superhydrophobic properties against various solutions of sauce, coffee, methylene blue, active red, Au nanoparticles, Ag nanoparticles, HCl, and NaOH with liquid contact angles up to 152-160°. In addition, the superhydrophobic fabric exhibited excellent UV aging resistance (UV protection factor was 100+; 74.58% of strength retention for 24 h of UV radiation compared with 55.15% of untreated fabric), a self-cleaning function against solid soil, and original wearing characteristics, including good breaking strength and air permeability. The developed superhydrophobic coating technology may promote practical application in high-temperature environments for aramid fabrics due to its good UV resistance, chemical resistance, poromericity, superhydrophobicity, anti-fouling, and self-cleaning properties.