Hydrophobic silica has ushered in a new era of material innovation

1.The superhydrophobic property has drawn attention
Recently, the superhydrophobic modification technology of silica has become the research focus of interface science. By constructing micro/nano-scale concave-convex structures on the surface of silica or introducing hydrophobic groups, silica acquires superhydrophobic properties. Water droplets on its surface almost form perfect spheres, demonstrating unique interface properties and greatly altering the interaction mode between silica and water.

2. Each modification approach has its own advantages
Micro/nanoscale structural modification increases the surface roughness of silica through a special process, thereby achieving a superhydrophobic effect. When water droplets fall on such a surface, they can only come into contact with the protruding parts, and the contact area is extremely small. The formed water droplets are very likely to roll off. Surface chemical modification directly treats the surface of silica, alters its chemical properties, introduces hydrophobic groups, significantly increases the water contact Angle, and endows the surface of silica with strong hydrophobicity. These two modification approaches each have their own advantages and can be flexibly selected according to different application scenarios and demands, providing diverse possibilities for the application expansion of silica.

3. It has shone brightly in multiple fields
In the textile industry, the application of hydrophobic silica has endowed fibers with outstanding functions such as water resistance and stain resistance. After outdoor sportswear is made of fabric treated with hydrophobic silica, it can effectively resist the invasion of rain while maintaining good breathability, greatly enhancing the wearing experience and meeting consumers' usage needs in complex environments.
In the manufacturing of oil-water separation equipment, hydrophobic silica plays a crucial role. It can significantly enhance the efficiency of oil-water separation. Whether it is industrial wastewater treatment or Marine oil spill cleaning, it can achieve efficient separation by virtue of its hydrophobic performance, contributing to environmental protection and resource recycling.
In the field of photovoltaic cells, hydrophobic silica can be used as a surface coating for cells. It can not only enhance the light absorption efficiency of the battery, but also improve the stability of the battery, reduce the performance decline caused by water erosion and dust adhesion, extend the service life of photovoltaic cells, and provide strong support for the efficient utilization of clean energy.

4. The commercial prospects are bright
At present, the superhydrophobic modification technology of silica is developing rapidly, and researchers are constantly innovating and optimizing it. With the gradual maturation of technology, the cost of related products keeps decreasing and their performance keeps improving. More and more enterprises have begun to get involved in this field, applying hydrophobic silica to the research and development and production of various products. From building materials to electronic products, from automobile manufacturing to medical devices, hydrophobic silica can be seen everywhere. Its commercial prospects are bright and it is expected to become an important growth point in the materials market in the future, promoting technological upgrading and product innovation in many industries.