Hierarchically-structured light-thermal solid slippery interface for anti-/de-icing

Ice formation in harsh weather conditions poses a significant challenge across various sectors, including transportation, energy, and infrastructure. Researchers have recently developed a variety of solar-driven photothermal slippery interfaces for deicing applications, showcasing excellent anti-icing and de-icing capabilities. However, these interfaces often suffer from low solar efficiency and require high operating temperatures, primarily due to suboptimal photothermal layer design, hindering their broad application. To address these issues, we developed a hierarchically structured photothermal solid slippery interface (P/HPC), consisting of paraffin, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), and carbon black, using a double-template method. The unique micro/nano hierarchical porous structure of the photothermal layer promotes multiple internal reflections of sunlight, thereby enhancing solar absorption and exhibiting superior photothermal properties. Under 1.0 kW/m² light intensity, this composite interface demonstrates exceptional anti-/de-icing properties, even at temperatures as low as −50 °C. Moreover, the interface demonstrates outstanding light-triggered self-healing abilities and stability under harsh conditions, offering a promising solution for anti-/de-icing applications in a variety of extreme environments.