Solvent Volatilization-Induced Cross-Linking of PDMS Coatings for Large-Scale Deicing Applications

Icing of surfaces has become a serious issue, and effective
methods
for preventing ice accretion have received much attention in recent
years. Here, a solvent volatilization-induced cross-linking hydroxy-terminated
dimethylsiloxane (Si–OH) coating with tetramethoxysilane (TMOS)
as a cross-linker is proposed for large-scale deicing applications.
Interfacial adhesion tests and shear force analysis were conducted
to confirm the large-scale deicing properties of the polydimethylsiloxane
(PDMS) coating. Through characterization of morphology, it was found
that there were negative correlations between roughness and constant
shear force and shear strength. The mean constant shear force per
unit width could be lower than 14 N/cm when the roughness was in the
highest range fabricated in this research. In addition to the morphology
of the surface, the mass ratio of the cross-linker to the premonomer
affected the state of the surface and the deicing properties. When
the mass ratio was lowered, uncross-linked molecular chains of the
premonomer existed on the surface, which resulted in an increase in
interfacial toughness and a reduction in shear strength. Finally,
durability tests showed that the coating had excellent durability
and could endure at least 50 cycles without an apparent increase in
the constant shear force.