Superhydrophobic Surface for Ice Mitigation: Mechanisms, Fabrication Strategies, and Applications

Superhydrophobic surfaces (SHS), characterized by low surface energy and minimal adhesion to liquids, have attracted extensive attention for applications such as self-cleaning, waterproofing, dust resistance, and corrosion protection. Beyond these traditional functions, the de-icing and anti-icing capabilities of SHS have recently garnered significant interest due to their inherent passive ice-shedding behavior. However, a comprehensive, mechanistic understanding of icing phenomena on SHS, along with effective strategies for improving ice-phobic performance, remains inadequately established. This review presents a systematic evaluation of passive and hybrid active–passive anti-icing and de-icing mechanisms, clarifying the theoretical principles underlying interfacial wetting, nucleation, solidification, and ice adhesion on SHS. It further summarizes recent advances in the design and fabrication of three key categories of SHS-based ice-phobic materials, micro/nanostructured superhydrophobic surfaces, superhydrophobic slippery surfaces, and photothermally responsive superhydrophobic materials—and provides a critical assessment of strategies for enhancing their performance. Finally, the review highlights persistent challenges and emerging opportunities, offering forward-looking perspectives to guide the development of next-generation SHS for robust, durable, and scalable anti-icing and de-icing applications.