Fabrication and Performance of Durable Superhydrophobic Cement Mortar by Combining Dry Modification with Stearic Acid and Template Molding

Abstract

Cement mortar is widely used in buildings, roads, bridges, and other infrastructure. However, its inherent porous structure and hydrophilicity facilitate the penetration of water and aggressive media into the cement mortar matrix, accelerating rebar corrosion and compromising structural durability. The construction of superhydrophobic cement mortar surfaces can effectively improve water repellency, self-cleaning performance, antifouling performance, and corrosion resistance. However, existing superhydrophobic cement mortar surfaces have several limitations, such as complex fabrication processes, susceptibility to mechanical damage, and inadequate mechanical durability of surface coatings. To address these limitations, we propose a method for preparing superhydrophobic cement mortar that combines dry modification with stearic acid and template molding. Cement was hydrophobically modified with stearic acid, and a nylon mesh template was used to construct rough structures during cement mortar molding. The prepared superhydrophobic cement mortar exhibited excellent water repellency, self-cleaning performance, and antifouling properties, as well as good repellency to various water-soluble liquids. Moreover, the superhydrophobic surface retained good hydrophobicity after sandpaper abrasion and sand impact tests, indicating good mechanical stability. Furthermore, the superhydrophobic structure can effectively hinder the penetration of water and corrosive media into the cement matrix, improving the corrosion resistance of the cement mortar. The method features a simple fabrication process, avoids the use of fluorinated low-surface-energy agents, and offers tunability in surface appearance, providing a feasible route for preparing superhydrophobic cement mortar that integrates waterproofing, self-cleaning, antifouling, corrosion resistance, and decorative functions.