Preparation of Stable POSS-Based Superhydrophobic Textiles Using Thiol–Ene Click Chemistry

Abstract

In this study, a superhydrophobic fabric was synthesized by modifying the fiber’s surface with dopamine-containing hydroxyl functional groups. Furthermore, we introduced mercapto-based functional groups by the hydrolysis of mercaptopropylmethyldimethoxysilane (MPMDS) and finally grafted POSS and mercaptans using a thiol–ene click reaction. These processes generated a superhydrophobic fabric with a static contact and a sliding angle of 162° and 8°, respectively. The superhydrophobic fabric’s compact and regular micro-nano rough structure based on POSS and mercaptans provides stable fastness and durability, as well as high resistance to organic solvents, acid–base environments, mechanical abrasion, UV rays, and washing. Moreover, it can be used for self-cleaning and oil–water separation, and it has a wide range of applications in the coating industry.