Stable superhydrophobic coatings from thiol-ligand nanocrystals and their application in oil/water separation

Stable superhydrophobic coatings were successfully achieved from thiol-ligand nanocrystals. Nanocrystals included VIII and IB metals and oxide nanoparticles, such as Fe, Co, Ni, Cu and Ag. We present a simple and available method that facilitates the synthesis of superhydrophobic textiles and sponges, in which the interaction between the nanocrystals and thiol plays a significant role in the formation of a special wetting surface. Meanwhile, the superhydrophobic textiles could also be endowed with new functionalities. For example, textiles with Fe ₃O ₄ nanocoatings possess magnetic properties, and Ag nanocrystals provide an antibacterial effect. If perfluoroalkyl thiol was used to replace alkyl thiol, the as-modified surfaces became oleophobic from superoleophilic. The proposed strategy was fit for various nanoparticles from as-established methods, including the preparation in different polar solvents, and the usage of surfactants as capping agents. As-prepared superhydrophobic nanocoatings show good durability towards hot water, surfactant aqueous solutions, and ultrasonic treatment in nonpolar solvents. The superhydrophobic and superoleophilic nanocoatings were effectively used for application in oil/water separation.