Biomimetic Superhydrophobic Concrete with Enhanced Anticorrosive, Freeze Thaw, and Deicing Resistance

Abstract

A green superhydrophobic hybridization concept that incorporates biomimetics (lotus effect), chemistry (siloxane and silane admixtures), and nanotechnology (hydrophobic coating with SiO2 nanoparticles) is used to produce superhydrophobic concrete. The fabricated samples exhibit superior hydrophobicity, contact angles (CA) up to 157.6° ± 3.1°, and roll‐off angles (RO) of 6.5° ± 1.5°, even under high surface mechanical abrasion. The superhydrophobic samples can decrease freeze‐thaw damage and maintain high freeze‐thaw resistance effectively. The modified surfaces exhibit 6 times lower deicing strength compared with the reference surfaces. Furthermore, the high water repellency helps to prevent corrosive liquids from encountering the concrete reinforcement samples and helps to improve the corrosion resistance of steel bars. These unique key properties and self‐cleaning capability make superhydrophobic concrete relevant for a wide range of commercial and practical engineering applications in construction, bridges, and transportation.

Evaluation of Success of Superhydrophobic Coatings in the Oil and Gas Construction Industry Using Structural Equation Modeling

“…In contrast to previous research, which needs a sample size of 200 or more for a comprehensive SEM analysis, this study recruited 144 participants out of 230 construction professionals, with a 67% response rate. This sample size was deemed enough for SEM analysis [5,42].…”

“…The research was undertaken in Malaysia, where superhydrophobic coatings are still relatively novel [2,5]. For research on superhydrophobic coating application, a stratified sampling strategy was used to obtain data from a specific subpopulation group since it is thought to produce the most reliable and accurate results.…”

“…A previous study revealed that superhydrophobic coatings in the oil and gas sector have the potential to introduce several advantages, including enhanced equipment operation, less downtime, higher energy efficiency, and enhanced sustainability [4]. In addition, by lowering the ecological impact of oil spillage, superhydrophobic coatings may assist in boosting the sustainability of oil and gas operations and preserve the environment from oil's destructive impacts [5]. Ahmad et al (2023) argued that, despite the potential advantages of using superhydrophobic coatings, their performance in the oil and gas construction sector is still a subject of continuous study [3].…”

“…In contrast to previous research, which needs a sample size of 200 or more for a comprehensive SEM analysis, this study recruited 144 participants out of 230 construction professionals, with a 67% response rate. This sample size was deemed enough for SEM analysis[5,42].This research makes a significant addition to the area by providing a systematic and rigorous assessment of the performance of superhydrophobic coatings throughout the oil and gas construction sector[9,70]. These research findings might provide construction sector participants with realistic solutions based on the methods used in various oil and gas projects.The research was undertaken in Malaysia, where superhydrophobic coatings are still relatively novel[2,5].…”

The Effects of Nano-Based Bio-Carbonates in Superhydrophobic Concrete—A Review

“…Hence, preventing moisture transfer within a concrete block is the most efficient technique to enhance its longevity and expand its serviceability. There are two major groups of widely used techniques to control wetness transfer [2]. The initial step involves enhancing the concrete's density by adjusting the water-cement proportion, adding a water-reducing agent, and mixing in admixtures.…”