Fabrication of asymmetric wettability silk fabrics with plasma-induced grafting polymerization of octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane

Most superhydrophobic surfaces contain fluorine, which is very harmful to the environment. So, it is necessary to change the situation. This paper explains that a simple and fluorine-free plasma technology for superhydrophobic modification of silk fabrics by using one-sided protection method and low-temperature plasma induced grafting polymerization of octamethyl-cyclotetrasiloxane (D4) to form the superhydrophobic films. Treated silk and pristine silk fabrics were measured using field emission scanning electron microscopy(FESEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy(FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy(XPS), and water contact angle measurement. The test results showed that the polymer films could be successful coated on the silk fibers surface via the low-temperature plasma. In addition, it has good durability, thermal stability, and a water contact angle of 152 degrees.