Synthesis of Superhydrophobic Nanocomposite Coatings using Electrodeposition

The focus of the current research is to produce a metal matrix composite material that possesses a superhydrophobic surface using electrodeposition. The objective is to create a multifunctional coating that is able to provide high strength as well as high water repellency using nanocrystalline nickel and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) particles. The co-deposition process was first studied. It was determined that the amount of PTFE co-deposited is highly dependent on the concentration of PTFE particles in the electroplating bath. The wetting angle of the surface greatly increased when the PTFE content increases. Next the electroplating procedure of pure nickel is altered to produce a nanocrystalline material, resulting in a large increase in the hardness of the nickel coatings. The two techniques are combined to produce a nanocrystalline Nickel-PTFE composite. Under optimum conditions, the composite coating displayed a highly water repellent surface and improved mechanical properties.M.A.S