6061-T6 aluminum alloy surfaces with T-shaped micro-textures: hydrophobic and oleophobic properties
摘要
The hydrophobic and oleophobic properties of a surface significantly influence its anti-adhesion, self-cleaning, and corrosion resistance under practical service conditions. To enhance the hydrophobic and oleophobic properties of aluminum alloy surfaces, a specially designed rectangular tool, inspired by the micro-structure of rice leaves, has been developed. U-shaped and T-shaped micro-textures are fabricated on 6061-T6 aluminum alloy workpieces using elliptical vibration-assisted turning (EVAT) and the combined process of EVAT with ultrasonic rolling. Unlike conventional U-shaped grooves, the T-shaped structures form re-entrant cavities through mechanical deformation, which more effectively trap air. The morphologies of these micro-textures are characterized, and the effect of micro-texture density on the hydrophobic and oleophobic properties is analyzed. Building on this, the impact of micro-textures on hydrophobic and oleophobic performance is further examined with the assistance of coatings. The results show that both micro-textures enhance the hydrophobic and oleophobic properties compared to untextured surfaces, with the texture density playing a decisive role in the extent of improvement. Additionally, the hydrophobic and oleophobic properties are further enhanced with coating assistance relative to uncoated surfaces. Ultimately, under the combined influence of the coating and T-shaped micro-textures, the water contact angle stabilizes at 135° and the oil contact angle stabilizes at 115°.