Simple method for preparing superhydrophobic paper: spray-deposited hydrophobic silica nanoparticle coatings exhibit high water-repellency and transparency.

Superhydrophobic and transparent coatings are deposited onto paper by spraying alcohol suspensions of SiO(2) nanoparticles. Superhydrophobicity depends on the aggregation states of nanoparticles, which are determined by the type of alcohol used in the suspensions. The superhydrophobicity of the paper is maintained after touching the paper with a bare finger.

Facile fabrication of colored superhydrophobic coatings by spraying a pigment nanoparticle suspension.

Superhydrophobic coatings were prepared by spraying a pigment nanoparticle suspension. By changing the type of pigment nanoparticles, the colors of the coating could be controlled. The particle size of the pigments, which determines the surface structure of the coatings, played an important role in exhibiting superhydrophobicity. The spray-coating process is applicable to a variety of materials (e.g., copper, glass, paper, coiled wire, and tied thread), and the superhydrophobicity was repairable.