Template-assisted encapsulation of fluorinated silanes in silica films for sustained hydrophobic-oleophobic functionality

► Surfactant templating of silica films aided in bulk encapsulation of fluorosilanes, which are usually surface-enriched. ► Encapsulation increased non-wetting character of film bulk after removal of top surface. ► N2 adsorption porosimetry indicates a co-surfactant effect between surfactant and fluorosilane. ► Encapsulation may be used to tune film properties to remain functional even after the surface-enriched top is worn away.