Michael Addition Reaction Assisted Derivation of Functional and Durable Superhydrophobic Interfaces

Bioinspired superhydrophobicity embedded functional interfaces hold immense possibilities to remediate different existing challenges in our day to day life. However, the durability, scalability of the conventional biomimicked superhydrophobic interfaces, the lack of an avenue to embed different, relevant chemical functionalities to tailor the water wettability and other relevant physical properties are major concerns. In this perspective, we have provided an insight into the advantageous use of “reactive” chemistries for building the desired topography and surface chemistry to achieve tailorable water wettability. We have further outlined the emerging future of Michael addition reaction as a promising, facile platform to derive scalable and robust superhydrophobicity. The stark comparison and superiority of the catalyst-free Michael addition reaction over the existing “reactive” chemistries for achieving a common avenue to tailor different water wettabilities is outlined in detail in this perspective. The judicious choice of reactants and reaction conditions in the Michael addition reaction provides an unprecedented basis to modulate relevant physical properties and different bioinspired superhydrophobicities. Moreover, we have discussed the usefulness of this economical chemical approach to convert eco-friendly, naturally abundant ingredients and wastes into abrasion tolerant materials embedded with bioinspired wettability, reports of which are rare in the literature. Based on the developments to date, Michael addition reaction can prove to be revolutionary for designing durable and functional bioinspired materials.