To investigate the superhydrophobic properties of different surface textures, nine designs of textures with micro-nanostructures were produced successfully using the laser engraving technique on the surfaces of composite insulator umbrella skirt samples made of silicon rubber. The optimal parameters of the texture designs to give rise to the best hydrophobicity were determined. The surface morphology, abrasion resistance, corrosion resistance, self-cleaning and antifouling property of the different textured surfaces as well as water droplets rolling on the textured surfaces were studied experimentally using a contact angle meter, scanning electron microscope, three-dimensional topography meter and high-speed camera system. It was found that the diamond column design with optimal parameters has the best superhydrophobicity and overall performance. The most remarkable advantage of the optimal diamond column design is its robustness and long-term superhydrophobicity after repeated de-icing in harsh conditions. The reported work is an important step towards achieving superhydrophobic surface without coating for outdoor composite insulator in practical applications.
Keywords: abrasion resistance; composite insulator; silicon rubber; superhydrophobic surface; textured surface.