Shape-controlled RGO/Er₂O₃-based glass substrates for robust superhydrophobicity

Superhydrophobic glass-based materials have wide applications in many fields. However, their dust adhesion, poor corrosion resistance, and poor durability under various conditions limit their further application in windows and solar panels. Here, morphology-controllable and well-dispersed reduced graphene oxide (RGO)/ erbium oxide (Er₂O₃) composites anchored on glass substrates were successfully synthesized by a straightforward hydrothermal method without the use of fluorine-containing chemicals. The engineered glass substrate with flower-like RGO/Er₂O₃ composite exhibits excellent superhydrophobicity with no hydrophobic modifiers on their surfaces, self-cleaning property and long-term durability in wide pH range conditions (pH of 1‒12). The findings provide a simple method for the design of robust fluorine-free self-cleaning glass substrates in harsh environments.