Facile fabrication of multifunctional underwater superoleophobicity zwitterionic coating by surface-initiated redox polymerization

Underwater superoleophobic coatings have become increasing important for the practical applications in petroleum industry. However, most of these coatings suffered from poor mechanical properties under harsh conditions, easily biofouling and further loss of the superwetting properties. Herein, we present a zwitterionic poly(2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine) (PMPC) coating via a novel surface-initiate redox polymerization. Compared to the conventional surface chemistry, this surface-initiate redox polymerization can happen under milder conditions with simple preparation steps. This PMPC coating exhibits excellent underwater superoleophobicity with low oil adhesion. Further, the PMPC coating shows excellent anti-biofouling and self-cleaning properties. Moreover, good chemical, mechanical, and high temperature stabilities make it suitable for practical applications in complex environment. It is believed that the novel prepared coating has a much wider applications in petroleum industry.