A multifunctional composite coating based on E51-PEI-PDMS-SiO₂-TiO₂ with self-cleaing, anti-icing and radiative cooling properties

Outdoor power facilities were required to have heat dissipation for the hot summer and to adopt anti-icing measures for the winter. The development of radiative cooling coating materials with both self-cleaning and anti-icing functions was of practical importance. A novel multifunctional composite coating, which exhibited self-cleaning, anti-icing, and radiative cooling properties, was developed using a one-step blade coating method. The multifunctional composite coating is composed of epoxy resin (E51), polyethyleneimine (PEI), polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), and SiO₂ and TiO₂ nanoparticles. By optimizing the SiO₂ to TiO₂ ratio, the coating achieves remarkable superhydrophobicity (water contact angle WCA = 157.25°), notable anti-icing performance (delayed icing time t ≈ 1223 s), and significant radiative cooling effects (cooling up to 13.6℃ below ambient temperature under direct sunlight). The preparation process excludes the use of fluorinated reagents, enhancing its environmental friendliness. The self-cleaning capability of the coating prevents surface contamination, thereby maintaining consistent anti-icing and radiative cooling performance. Additionally, the composite coating demonstrates excellent durability in wear tests, chemical stability assessments, and outdoor weather resistance evaluations, underscoring its suitability for practical outdoor applications.