ABSTRACT
Ice formation and accumulation on surfaces has a negative impact in many different sectors and can even represent a potential danger. In this review, the latest advances and trends in icephobic coatings focusing on the importance of their durability are discussed, in an attempt to pave the roadmap from the lab to engineering applications. An icephobic material is expected to lower the ice adhesion strength, delay freezing time or temperature, promote the bouncing of a supercooled drop at subzero temperatures and/or reduce the ice accretion rate. To better understand what is more important for specific icing conditions, the different types of ice that can be formed in nature are summarized. Similarly, the alternative methods to evaluate the durability are reviewed, as this is key to properly selecting the method and parameters to ensure the coating is durable enough for a given application. Finally, the different types of icephobic surfaces available to date are considered, highlighting the strategies to enhance their durability, as this is the factor limiting the commercial applicability of icephobic coatings.
ABSTRACT
Infusion of solid perfluoroalkanes into polydimethylsiloxane gels provides a simple route to regenerating deicing surfaces, with low adhesion strength from the lower inherent cohesive energy of the perfluoroalkanes. Further, these surfaces are more hydrophobic and environmentally stable than their alkane analogues. The result is a robust, regenerating surface which demonstrates low energy ice adhesion (19.6 kPa), hydrophobicity (water contact angle, CA, >100°), and high environmental stability.