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Novel Sol-Gel-SiO₂/rGO coating delays icing and accelerates deicing
Researchers have developed a Sol-Gel coating that combines superhydrophobic properties with photothermal functionality. The material delays icing, accelerates deicing, and simultaneously provides corrosion protection.
A research team has introduced a novel Sol-Gel-SiO₂/rGO composite coating prepared via a straightforward sol-gel method. The surface achieves a water contact angle of more than 170°, combining extreme hydrophobicity with photothermal performance. This multifunctional approach offers promising solutions for environments prone to icing.
In experimental tests, the coating significantly delayed icing, a feature that was further enhanced under simulated solar irradiation due to its photothermal effect. Deicing performance was also improved: ice melted within 120 s on copper and 263 s on glass, compared with much longer times on untreated surfaces.
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Durability and potential applications
Beyond anti-icing properties, the coating demonstrated strong corrosion resistance and mechanical robustness. According to the researchers, the combination of simple preparation, durability and multifunctionality makes the Sol-Gel-SiO₂/rGO coating a strong candidate for use in transportation, aerospace and power transmission systems.
The study highlights the potential of advanced composite coatings that combine targeted surface functionalities to enable reliable performance under harsh conditions.
Source: Yin, T. et al., A superhydrophobic SiO₂/rGO composite coating with enhanced photothermal properties for anti-icing/deicing. J. Mater. Chem. C, Issue 32 (2025).
