A research team led by Prof. DONG Zhichao from the Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has developed a new fabrication method for superhydrophobic fabrics. The approach, termed MARS (Molecularly Assembled Robust Superhydrophobic Shell), enables stable water-repellent performance under mechanical stress. The findings were published in Nature Communications on March 20.
Developing durable water-repellent textiles remains a key requirement for outdoor, protective and industrial applications, but maintaining performance under mechanical stress has been a persistent challenge.
A research team led by Prof. DONG Zhichao from the Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has introduced a one-step fabrication strategy known as MARS (Molecularly Assembled Robust Superhydrophobic Shell). This method enables the production of superhydrophobic fabrics with stable mechanical performance under demanding conditions.
The findings were published in Nature Communications on March 20.
Conventional approaches to producing superhydrophobic fabrics rely on expensive nano-fillers and toxic chemical reagents. Commercial waterproof textiles largely depend on fluorochemicals, which are facing an impending ban in multiple countries from 2026. Additionally, the surface layer responsible for superhydrophobicity is typically fragile and can degrade due to friction, washing or exposure to extreme environments.
The MARS strategy addresses these issues by constructing a superhydrophobic shell directly on individual fibers. This treatment achieves superhydrophobicity at the single-fiber level and is compatible with both natural and synthetic fibers. The hydrophobic properties are maintained even after the fibers are processed into knitted or woven fabrics.
The research team evaluated the durability of MARS-treated fabrics under various conditions. The materials retained superhydrophobic properties under prolonged raindrop exposure and high-speed droplet impact. In abrasion tests, including Martindale and Taber methods, the fabrics remained superhydrophobic after tens of thousands of cycles.
Further durability assessments included simulated wear scenarios such as friction from backpack straps, repeated stretching, brushing, tape peeling, and activities including running and walking. The results indicated sustained performance under these conditions.
The fabrics also demonstrated stability across a wide temperature range. Superhydrophobic performance was maintained at high temperatures of 160 °C under steam and at low temperatures of -196 °C under liquid nitrogen (N2).
Testing confirmed that the modification process does not affect key fabric properties such as breathability, moisture permeability, softness and tensile strength, ensuring retention of wearability.
The MARS method provides a pathway for developing waterproof fabrics suitable for outdoor, protective, medical and industrial applications.
This research was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Young Elite Scientists Sponsorship Program of the China Association for Science and Technology.