Rapid fabrication of angle-independent structurally colored films with a superhydrophobic property

• Non-iridescent structurally colored films were prepared.
• The films exhibit high contact angles (∼165°) and low roll-off angles (<2°).
• This method is simple and could be applied on both flat and curved substrates.

Structural colors with anti-photo bleaching character have attracted great attentions in energy-saving reflective displaying. However, the brilliant color will disappear once the film is wet, due to the decreased refractive index contrast.Generally, hydrophobic colored films are produced from hydrophobic nanoparticles, three-dimension ordered macroporous structures or spray coating of hydrophobic treated silica NPs. But the process of the three-dimension ordered macroporous structures is time consuming and this ordered array will lead to iridescent colors. Besides, it has been recognized that some fluorochemicals have potential risks to human health and environment.In this work, we report the angle-independent structurally colored films with a superhydrophobic property fabricated by spray coating of SiO2 NPs and PDMS. The as-prepared films exhibit a high contact angle (∼165°) and a low roll-off angle (<2°). The combination of non-iridescent structural color and superhydrophobicity is significant for potential applications in outdoors.