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Advances in superhydrophobic coatings for wood composites
A recent review outlines how superhydrophobic coatings can significantly enhance the performance of wood-based composites. Key elements include nanoparticles, bio-based materials and innovative coating methods.
Wood composites are vulnerable to degradation caused by both biological and non-biological factors. Surface protection through coatings offers an efficient way to improve their performance. According to a recent review, superhydrophobic coatings enable the development of multifunctional, high-value wood products. Hierarchical surface roughness combined with low surface free energy are the critical parameters to achieve such properties.
Common methods include layer-by-layer deposition, hydrothermal treatment and chemical vapour deposition. These approaches reduce water absorption and enhance resistance to environmental stress. Increasingly, research is turning towards eco-friendly solutions by combining biomass-based feedstocks with nanoparticles to achieve sustainable high-performance coatings.
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Sustainability and challenges in application
While laboratory-scale studies show promising results, scaling up production remains challenging. The review stresses that future progress will depend on low-cost, efficient and environmentally friendly methods, supported by simple equipment and sustainable raw materials.
The authors emphasise that advancing superhydrophobic coatings for wood composites will be key to extending durability and enabling broader functional applications in demanding environments.
Source: Kartikawati, A. et al., Technological advancement in development of super-hydrophobic coatings for high-performance wood composites: A review. Prog. Org. Coat. 203, 109160 (2025).
