Surface Fluorination of Silicone Rubber with Enhanced Stain Resistance and Slip Properties

• DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c21008
• Publication Date: 2025-01-25T13:57:17Z
• Authors: Yangling Ou; Junwei Lv; Jiaxiang Liu; Siyao Chen; Yang Liu; Xiangyang Liu
• Keywords: Silicone rubber; Stain; Surface Modification

Silicone rubber (SR) holds significant potential for everyday wearable devices due to its inherent sweat resistance and flexibility. However, broader applicability is constrained by poor oil a suboptimal slip performance. In this study, we developed an SR with durable enhanced properties forming covalently bonded barrier layer on surface through one-step in situ fluorination reaction using F2/N2. The process exploration revealed that low concentrations of F2 preferentially produce thermodynamic products containing Si-F bonds, while higher favor the formation C-F bonds similar contents layer, as confirmed theoretical simulations. This fluorine-containing modification significantly reduces friction coefficient from 0.68 0.38 imparts fascinating amphiphobic properties, increasing water contact angles 31.7 23.2°, respectively, compared pristine SR. As result, fluorinated demonstrates superior performance stain resistance, particularly against challenging contaminants like chili oil, even after frictional wear owing robustness layer. Additionally, outstanding confer excellent antibacterial Escherichia coli Staphylococcus aureus, positioning it highly promising material applications.