Subcooled-Water Nonstickiness of Condensate Microdrop Self-Propelling Nanosurfaces.

We report perfect humidity-tolerant subcooled-water nonstickiness on condensate microdrop self-propelling (CMDSP) surfaces. As exemplified by a CMDSP nanoneedle surface, we find that impinged subcooled drops can instantly rebound and simultaneously take away surface condensate. Remarkably, continuously poured subcooled water can also shed off on the nanosample surface. In sharp contrast, they instantly freeze on the contrast flat hydrophobic surface. Such a superior performance may be ascribed to nanostructure-induced extremely low solid-liquid interface adhesion and prevention of phase transition from the liquid subcooled water to the solid ice. These findings help in the development of low-adhesive superhydrophobic surfaces suitable for a cold and humid environment.