Special oleophobic and hydrophilic surfaces: approaches, mechanisms, and applications

Abstract

An oleophobic and hydrophilic surface is a surface that is more wettable to water than to oil. In recent years, this novel surface has attracted significant attention since it is highly desirable in many important applications such as long-term anti-fogging, detergent-free cleaning, and oil and water separation. In this study, we focused on recent advances in oleophobic and hydrophilic surfaces. We briefly summarized three approaches, including simultaneously oleophobic/hydrophilic behavior, oleophobic/hydrophobic to hydrophilic switching behavior, and hydrophilic/underwater superoleophobic behavior, to achieve this surface. Moreover, we discussed the underlying mechanisms and the potential applications of this surface have also been introduced.