Hyperbranched Vanillin‐Based Composite Coating: Achieve Efficient Icephobicity in High Humidity and Dynamic Environments

Abstract

Abstract Despite tremendous advancements in icephobic coating technology, icephobic efficacy frequently declines or completely disappears in low temperatures, high humidity, and dynamic environments. Here, a hyperbranched vanillin‐based composite coating with efficient icephobic properties (HVIC) is prepared by combining vanillin‐based phosphazene compounds with oil‐stored SiO 2 through imine bonds‐ HVIC exhibits excellent hydrophobicity, with a water sliding angle of 9°. This coating's exceptional slippery performance imparts outstanding non‐adhesive, self‐cleaning characteristics, and deicing properties (τ ice : 8.2 kPa). It is noteworthy that HVIC performs exceptional anti‐icing and anti‐frosting in low‐temperature and high humidity environments. Compared with superhydrophobic coatings (SHC), the icing delay time of HVIC is 9.1 times that of SHC, and the frosting time is extended by roughly 300%. Most importantly, the HVIC‐treated propeller experienced two ice‐shedding events during the 200s dynamic icing test, while SHC completely lost its icephobic performance. This excellent dynamic icephobic performance can ensure the normal operation of the equipment while reducing energy consumption. The HVIC also exhibits significant UV shielding, antibacterial, flame retardant, self‐healing, and recyclability properties. The HVIC is regarded as having significant potential for application due to its easy and scalable approach.