Proper matching of lubricants and modifiers: another key factor for durable anti-icing performance of lubricated surfaces

Slippery liquid-infused porous surfaces (SLIPSs) with anti-icing properties are challenged by the lubricant loss. Many strategies (such as structure optimization, lubricant improvement) are used to retain the lubricant in the porous structure. However, the matching of modifier and lubricant is rarely studied, which is another key factor for durable anti-icing performance of lubricated surfaces. Herein, proper matching of different lubricants and modifiers were investigated. Perfluoropolyether oil (PFPE) and silicone oil (SO) are chosen as lubricants. Linear alkane (OTS) and fluorinated alkane (FAS) are chosen as modifiers. A series of SLIPSs were prepared by infusing lubricants into unmodified and modified anodized aluminum oxide (AAO) surfaces. The suitable matches (OTS with SO, FAS with PFPE) make the prepared SLIPS have high water mobility and enable high affinity between the lubricant and modified AAO surface. The former contributes to improving the anti-icing performance in the simulated glaze icing test, and the latter is beneficial to improving the durability during the icing/deicing cycles. This work provides useful information to determine the suitable pairs of lubricant-modifier for durable anti-icing lubricated surfaces.