News Coatings Technologies
Janus particle microcapsules enable innovative anti-icing coating with photothermal and superhydrophobic properties
Researchers have developed a multifunctional anti-icing coating that combines Janus particles and phase-change microcapsules to store thermal energy, efficiently utilise solar energy, and ensure outstanding mechanical durability.
Photothermal superhydrophobic coatings hold great promise for anti-icing and de-icing applications but face limitations such as intermittent sunlight exposure and leakage from encapsulated phase-change materials. This study introduces a novel solution: Janus particles (JPs) encapsulating n-octadecane (C18) in microcapsules that integrate photothermal conversion with thermal energy storage.
Using emulsion polymerisation and phase separation, the particles were structurally anchored with epoxy-Silica@PS/PDVB, forming a rivet-like structure. The microcapsules demonstrate a melting latent heat of 91.02 J/g and a crystallisation latent heat of 83.9 J/g, highlighting their thermal reliability. Under sunlight, the coating increases the surface temperature by approximately 20 °C within 400 s, while the phase-change materials slow temperature changes and delay freezing.
Event Tip: Fundamentals of Functional Coatings
Dive into the world of functional coatings designed to offer specialized properties such as anti-fouling, anti-ice, easy-to-clean, and drag reduction. This tutorial will cover fundamental principles, materials selection, surface modification techniques, and case studies across different applications. Join in and explore how these coatings are transforming industries worldwide.
Mechanical durability and anti-icing efficiency
The coating achieves a water contact angle of 155.59° and a sliding angle of only 5°, maintaining its superhydrophobicity and self-cleaning ability after 100 abrasion cycles. These properties make it ideal for low-temperature, high-humidity environments. The research provides new insights into high-performance phase-change materials and innovative anti-icing coating design.
Source: Ma, H. et al., A highly efficient anti-icing/de-icing surface designed with Janus particle encapsulated phase-change microcapsules exhibits photothermal performance and superhydrophobicity. Progress in Organic Coatings, 109892 (2025).
