Green Superhydrophobic Paper with Self-cleaning Properties Prepared via One-step Impregnation

In this study, a green and pollution-free multifunctional superhydrophobic paper-based material was prepared using a simple and efficient dipping method. The superhydrophobic paper with a water contact angle (WCA) of 160° was prepared by attaching micro- and nanocomposite particles, made of stearic acid-modified chitosan and two kinds of titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles of different sizes, to a paper substrate. The surface morphology, elemental composition, and wetting properties of the coatings were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and contact angle measurements. Additionally, superhydrophobic coatings exhibited good self-cleaning properties, liquid repellency, ease of repair, and antifouling properties in organic solutions.