A pinecone-like superhydrophobic surface with energy self-driven capability and mechanical stability for efficient anti-icing/deicing

In this study, we developed a PDMS/Gr@NiO/NF composite system (PGNF) that integrates high-efficiency photothermal conversion, superhydrophobicity, and mechanical stability. Using three-dimensional porous nickel foam (NF) as the scaffold, pinecone-like Gr@NiO was electrodeposited onto NF to construct an efficient thermal conduction and photothermal conversion layer, followed by polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) encapsulation to achieve surface superhydrophobicity. This material constructed a mechanically stable superhydrophobic surface, realizing the synergy between anti-icing and deicing. Its excellent superhydrophobicity (WCA = 154.2 °, SA = 4.15 °) can effectively delay ice formation. The delayed freezing time reached 7085 s at -10 °C, and even under extremely cold conditions of -25 °C, the delayed freezing time remained 524 s. Under illumination, the synergistic effect between NF's unique high-specific-surface-area three-dimensional structure and the Gr@NiO composite endows it with efficient light absorption and photothermal conversion capabilities. Under illumination of 100 mW•cm−2, the PGNF surface temperature can reach 73.2 °C. In a -10 °C environment, the ice melting time is only 69 s; even at temperatures as low as -25 °C, the ice melting time is merely 183 s, demonstrating rapid deicing capability. Its solar-driven deicing mode fundamentally eliminates dependence on traditional electricity, offering significant energy-saving and environmental protection advantages.