Update date: Aug 15, 2026 | 273 Pages | Report ID: M-AM-012773
Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface Market
DMA IntelligenceSuperhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface Growth Drivers & Forecast Analysis 2033
Segments: Type (Coated Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel, Structured Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel), Application (Aerospace, Automotive, Medical Devices, Electronics, Construction, Marine, Others), End-Use Industry (Industrial, Commercial, Residential, Others), By Region, And Segment Forecasts
$1.3B
Market Size, 2025
$1.6B
Market Estimate, 2026
$8.7B
Market Forecast, 2033
27.2%
CAGR, 2026–2033
Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface Market Size, Share & Key Insights
The Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface Market size was valued at USD 1.27 in 2025, and the market is projected to grow from USD 1.62 in 2026 to USD 8.70 by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 27.2%% during the forecast period 2026–2033. North America, Europe, APAC, Latin America, MEA led the global market in 2025.
Study Overview
 Study Period | 2021 - 2033 |
 Base Year | 2025 |
 Estimated Year | 2026 |
 Forecast Period | 2026-2033 |
 Historical Range | 2021-2025 |
| Units | USD Billion |
 Coverage | Global | North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa |
 Deliverables | PDF + Excel Data Pack |
Major Market Players
Key Takeaways: Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface Market
- In 2025, the global Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface market size was estimated to be USD 1.27 billion
- Projected to grow at a 27.2% CAGR, reaching a valuation of USD 8.33 billion by 2033
- The Hydrophobic Coating category accounted for the highest market share of 60% within the Type segment
- Superhydrophobic Coating captured a substantial 40% of the total revenue in 2025
- Regionally, North America emerged as the top market, generating USD 0.44 billion and securing a 35% share
- Primary market growth drivers include increasing demand for self-cleaning and anti-corrosion applications, and advancements in nanotechnology
- Key industry player NEI Corporation strengthened its market position via strategic collaborations and product innovation
Market Definiton and Strategic Context
The Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface market refers to the industry segment dedicated to the research, development, production, and application of stainless steel materials engineered with advanced surface modifications to exhibit extreme water repellency. These surfaces are designed to mimic the self-cleaning and anti-wetting properties found in nature, such as the lotus leaf effect, where water droplets bead up and roll off, carrying contaminants with them. The market encompasses a wide range of technologies, including chemical etching, physical vapor deposition (PVD), chemical vapor deposition (CVD), sol-gel methods, and the application of specialized coatings containing nanoparticles or fluoropolymers. The primary goal is to create surfaces with a contact angle greater than 150 degrees, providing superior protection against corrosion, biofouling, icing, and drag. The relevance of this market stems from its ability to enhance the durability, performance, and longevity of stainless steel components across diverse sectors, reducing maintenance costs and improving operational efficiency. The global Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface market size was estimated at USD 1.27 billion in 2025. This market is poised for significant industry expansion, driven by increasing demand for high-performance materials in challenging environments. The growth outlook for the Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface market is exceptionally strong, with a robust market forecast indicating substantial opportunities for innovation and commercialization. The ongoing advancements in material science and nanotechnology are continually pushing the boundaries of what these surfaces can achieve, opening new application avenues and driving market value. This report provides a comprehensive market forecast and analysis of the Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface market, detailing its current state and future growth trajectory.
| Report Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Market size value in 2025 | USD 1.27 Billion |
| Revenue forecast in 2033 | USD 8.70 Billion |
| Growth rate | CAGR of 27.2% from 2025 to 2033 |
| Actual data | 2021 - 2024 |
| Forecast period | 2025 - 2033 |
| Quantitative units | Revenue in USD Billion and CAGR from 2025 to 2033 |
| Report coverage | Revenue forecast, company share, competitive landscape, growth factors, and trends |
| Segments covered | Type, Application, End-Use Industry |
| Regional scope | North America; Europe; APAC; Latin America; MEA |
| Country scope | All; All; All; All; All |
| Key companies profiled | NEI Corporation; Nippon Steel Corporation; AkzoNobel N.V.; Lotus Leaf Coatings, Inc.; UltraTech International, Inc.; NeverWet (Rust-Oleum Corporation); PPG Industries, Inc.; Aculon, Inc.; Surfactis Technologies; DryWired; HZO, Inc.; Advanced Nanotech Lab; Nanex Company; Nasiol Nano Coating; Hydrobead; P2i Ltd.; Daikin Industries, Ltd.; BASF SE; Evonik Industries AG; NanoTech Surface Solutions |
| Customization scope | Free report customization (equivalent to 8 analysts working days) with purchase. Addition or alteration to country, regional & segment scope. |
| Pricing and purchase options | Avail customized purchase options to meet your exact research needs. Explore purchase options |
Growth Catalysts & Market Constraints
The Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface market is experiencing dynamic shifts, driven by a confluence of technological advancements and evolving industry demands. The increasing awareness regarding the long-term benefits of enhanced surface properties, such as reduced maintenance and extended product lifespan, is significantly propelling the Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface market. This growth forecast is further solidified by the growing adoption of these materials in sectors like automotive and marine, where corrosion resistance and self-cleaning capabilities are paramount. The market size is expanding as manufacturers invest in R&D to develop more durable and cost-effective superhydrophobic solutions. These market dynamics highlight a robust growth trajectory, underscoring the critical role of innovative surface engineering in addressing modern industrial challenges.
Growth Drivers
- Increasing Demand for Anti-Corrosion and Self-Cleaning Properties: Industries such as automotive, marine, aerospace, and construction are increasingly seeking materials that offer superior protection against corrosion and require minimal maintenance. Superhydrophobic stainless steel surfaces inherently repel water and contaminants, preventing rust formation and reducing the need for frequent cleaning, which significantly extends the lifespan of components and lowers operational costs, thereby driving market adoption.
- Advancements in Nanotechnology and Material Science: Continuous innovation in nanotechnology, including the development of novel coating techniques and nanoscale structures, is making superhydrophobic surfaces more durable, scalable, and cost-effective. These technological breakthroughs enable the creation of robust coatings that can withstand harsh environmental conditions and mechanical wear, broadening the application scope and making the technology more commercially viable across various industrial sectors.
Restraints
- High Production Costs and Complex Manufacturing Processes: The fabrication of superhydrophobic stainless steel surfaces often involves intricate and energy-intensive processes like chemical vapor deposition, laser etching, or specialized coating applications. These complex manufacturing techniques, coupled with the high cost of advanced raw materials and specialized equipment, lead to elevated production costs, which can limit widespread adoption, particularly in price-sensitive markets and for large-scale applications.
- Durability and Mechanical Stability Concerns: Despite advancements, the long-term mechanical stability and abrasion resistance of superhydrophobic coatings remain a significant challenge. Many coatings are susceptible to damage from physical contact or harsh environmental conditions, which can degrade their water-repellent properties over time. This limited durability in demanding applications raises concerns about their practical utility and necessitates frequent reapplication or replacement, adding to the overall cost and hindering market growth.
Opportunities
- Expansion into Emerging Applications and Industries: The unique properties of superhydrophobic stainless steel surfaces present significant opportunities for new applications beyond traditional uses. Potential growth areas include medical devices for anti-bacterial surfaces, food processing equipment for enhanced hygiene, smart textiles, and advanced electronics for moisture protection, opening untapped market segments and diversifying revenue streams for manufacturers.
- Development of Cost-Effective and Scalable Manufacturing Techniques: Research into more economical and scalable production methods, such as roll-to-roll processing, spray coating, or electrodeposition, offers a substantial opportunity to reduce manufacturing costs and increase production volumes. Successful development and commercialization of such techniques would make superhydrophobic stainless steel surfaces more accessible and competitive, driving broader market penetration and adoption across various industries.
Challenges
- Lack of Standardized Testing and Performance Evaluation Methods: The absence of universally accepted standards for testing and evaluating the performance and durability of superhydrophobic coatings creates uncertainty for end-users and manufacturers. This makes it difficult to compare different products, ensure consistent quality, and build consumer trust, hindering market maturation and slowing the adoption rate of these advanced materials across various applications.
- Environmental Concerns Regarding Coating Materials: Some superhydrophobic coatings utilize fluorinated compounds or other chemicals that can pose environmental or health risks during production, application, or disposal. Addressing these concerns requires the development of more eco-friendly and sustainable coating materials and processes, which represents a significant technical and regulatory challenge for market players seeking to expand their reach and comply with evolving environmental regulations.
Market Level Breakdown
The Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface market is segmented by Type into Hydrophobic Coating and Superhydrophobic Coating. The Hydrophobic Coating segment holds the largest share, primarily due to its established use cases and relatively lower cost of application, making it a preferred choice for a wide range of industrial and consumer products requiring basic water repellency. Superhydrophobic Coating, while offering superior performance with contact angles exceeding 150 degrees, represents the advanced frontier of this market, driven by specialized applications demanding extreme water aversion, such as high-performance aerospace components and advanced medical devices. This segment is expected to witness faster growth as manufacturing costs decrease and durability improves.
Further segmentation by Application includes Self-Cleaning Surfaces, Anti-Corrosion, Anti-Icing, Drag Reduction, and Oil-Water Separation. Self-Cleaning Surfaces lead the application segment, particularly in architectural and automotive sectors, where aesthetic appeal and reduced maintenance are highly valued. Anti-Corrosion applications are critical in marine and industrial environments, protecting infrastructure from harsh conditions. Anti-Icing solutions are gaining traction in aviation and energy sectors to ensure operational safety and efficiency. Drag Reduction applications are pivotal in shipping and pipeline industries, aiming to improve energy efficiency. Oil-Water Separation, though a niche application, is vital for environmental protection and industrial wastewater treatment, showcasing the diverse utility of superhydrophobic stainless steel surfaces.
The market is also segmented by End-Use Industry, encompassing Automotive, Aerospace, Marine, Construction, and Electronics. The Automotive industry is a significant consumer, utilizing these surfaces for enhanced vehicle aesthetics, corrosion resistance, and improved visibility. Aerospace applications demand lightweight, durable, and anti-icing properties for aircraft components. The Marine sector relies on superhydrophobic surfaces for anti-fouling and corrosion protection on ship hulls and offshore structures. Construction leverages these materials for self-cleaning facades and durable outdoor installations. In the Electronics industry, these surfaces provide moisture protection for sensitive components, extending device lifespan and reliability, thus driving the Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface segmentation across these key sectors.
Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface Segmentation Breakdown
- Type
- Coated Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel
- Structured Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel
- Application
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Medical Devices
- Electronics
- Construction
- Marine
- Others
- End-Use Industry
- Industrial
- Commercial
- Residential
- Others
Geographic Performance & Regional Trends
North America emerged as the largest market for Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface in 2025, driven by robust industrial growth, significant R&D investments, and stringent regulatory standards demanding high-performance materials in sectors like automotive and aerospace. The region's early adoption of advanced technologies and strong emphasis on product longevity and efficiency contribute to its leading position. Meanwhile, Asia Pacific is projected to be the fastest-growing region, primarily due to rapid industrialization, increasing infrastructure development, and a burgeoning manufacturing base, particularly in countries like China and India. The rising demand for durable and low-maintenance materials in construction, electronics, and automotive industries across Asia Pacific is a key factor fueling its exceptional Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface market growth.
Regional Growth Drivers
- North America: The region benefits from significant investments in advanced materials research and development, particularly in the United States and Canada. Stringent environmental regulations and a strong focus on energy efficiency in industries like automotive, aerospace, and construction are driving the adoption of superhydrophobic stainless steel surfaces for corrosion protection and drag reduction applications, ensuring high demand for innovative solutions.
- Europe: European countries, including Germany, the United Kingdom, and France, are at the forefront of implementing eco-friendly and sustainable manufacturing practices. The robust automotive and marine industries, coupled with a strong emphasis on reducing maintenance costs and enhancing material lifespan, are accelerating the demand for superhydrophobic solutions, supported by favorable government initiatives and research funding.
- Asia Pacific: Rapid industrialization and urbanization across China, India, and Japan are fueling massive infrastructure development and manufacturing expansion. The increasing demand for durable, self-cleaning, and anti-corrosion materials in construction, electronics, and automotive sectors, combined with growing awareness of advanced surface technologies, positions Asia Pacific as the fastest-growing market.
- Latin America: Modernization of industrial infrastructure and expanding manufacturing capabilities in countries like Brazil and Mexico are driving the demand for high-performance materials. The automotive and construction sectors are key contributors, seeking to improve product quality and extend lifespan, thereby creating a fertile ground for the adoption of superhydrophobic stainless steel surfaces to meet evolving industrial needs.
- Middle East & Africa: Significant investments in infrastructure development, particularly in the construction and oil & gas sectors in countries like Saudi Arabia and South Africa, are propelling market growth. The need for materials that can withstand harsh environmental conditions, such as high temperatures and salinity, makes superhydrophobic stainless steel surfaces an attractive option for asset protection and operational efficiency improvements.
Looking ahead, mature markets in North America and Europe are expected to continue their steady growth, driven by ongoing innovation and the replacement of conventional materials with advanced superhydrophobic solutions. These regions will likely focus on high-value, specialized applications and continuous product refinement. In contrast, emerging markets in Asia Pacific and Latin America will exhibit accelerated growth, fueled by rapid industrial expansion, infrastructure projects, and increasing adoption rates. Strategic implications for suppliers involve tailoring product offerings and distribution channels to cater to the distinct maturity levels and regulatory environments of these diverse regional landscapes, ensuring sustainable market penetration and revenue growth.
Competitive Insights & Leading Companies
The Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface competitive landscape is characterized by a moderately consolidated structure, with a mix of established chemical companies, advanced materials specialists, and a growing number of innovative startups. Global players like AkzoNobel N.V., PPG Industries, Inc., and BASF SE leverage their extensive R&D capabilities, broad product portfolios, and global distribution networks to maintain a strong market presence. Alongside these giants, specialized firms such as NEI Corporation, Lotus Leaf Coatings, Inc., and NeverWet (Rust-Oleum Corporation) focus on niche applications and proprietary technologies, often offering highly customized solutions. Competitive intensity is driven by continuous innovation in coating durability, application methods, and cost-effectiveness. Key competitive levers include the ability to offer superior water repellency, abrasion resistance, and long-term performance, alongside competitive pricing and efficient distribution channels. Regulatory approvals and certifications for specific industry applications, particularly in aerospace and medical sectors, also play a crucial role in market differentiation. The market sees a dynamic interplay between large-scale production capabilities and specialized, high-performance offerings, shaping the overall competitive environment.
Companies in the Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface market are employing various strategies to gain a competitive edge. Mergers and acquisitions are common, allowing larger entities to integrate specialized technologies and expand their intellectual property portfolios, while product launches focus on introducing next-generation coatings with enhanced durability and broader applicability. Strategic partnerships and collaborations with research institutions and industrial end-users are vital for developing tailored solutions and entering new markets. R&D investments are particularly high, aimed at improving coating techniques, reducing material costs, and overcoming challenges related to mechanical stability and environmental impact. Differentiation is achieved through superior technological performance, such as achieving higher contact angles or better resistance to harsh chemicals, and through service models that offer comprehensive application support and customization. Channel strength, leveraging direct sales and distributor networks, is also crucial for market penetration. However, the industry faces challenges such as margin pressure due to intense competition and the need for significant capital investment in R&D and manufacturing infrastructure. Compliance costs associated with environmental regulations for certain coating chemistries also present a hurdle, necessitating a continuous shift towards more sustainable and eco-friendly solutions to maintain market relevance and competitive advantage.
Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface Key Companies
- NEI Corporation
- Nippon Steel Corporation
- AkzoNobel N.V.
- Lotus Leaf Coatings, Inc.
- UltraTech International, Inc.
- NeverWet (Rust-Oleum Corporation)
- PPG Industries, Inc.
- Aculon, Inc.
- Surfactis Technologies
- DryWired
- HZO, Inc.
- Advanced Nanotech Lab
- Nanex Company
- Nasiol Nano Coating
- Hydrobead
- P2i Ltd.
- Daikin Industries, Ltd.
- BASF SE
- Evonik Industries AG
- NanoTech Surface Solutions
Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface Market Ecosystem
Ecosystem Participants
- Raw Material Suppliers — Provide the foundational chemicals and nanoparticles essential for creating superhydrophobic coatings and modifying stainless steel surfaces. These suppliers ensure the quality and consistency of materials like fluoropolymers, silica nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, and various etchants, which directly impact the final performance and durability of the superhydrophobic products.
- Their role is critical in maintaining the supply chain integrity and enabling innovation in coating formulations, influencing both cost-effectiveness and environmental compliance of the end products.
- Manufacturers of Superhydrophobic Coatings and Treated Stainless Steel — These entities specialize in applying or integrating superhydrophobic properties onto stainless steel. This includes companies that formulate and produce coating solutions as well as those that perform surface modification treatments on stainless steel substrates, delivering finished products to end-users.
- They are responsible for advanced R&D, process optimization, and ensuring that the treated surfaces meet specific performance criteria for various applications, often requiring significant capital investment in specialized equipment.
- Research and Development Institutions/Universities — Academic and private research bodies are instrumental in advancing the fundamental science behind superhydrophobicity and developing novel materials and application techniques. They often collaborate with manufacturers to translate laboratory breakthroughs into commercial solutions.
- These institutions drive long-term innovation, exploring new chemistries, surface structures, and fabrication methods that push the boundaries of performance and address current limitations like durability and scalability.
- End-Use Industries — Diverse sectors that integrate superhydrophobic stainless steel surfaces into their products or infrastructure. This includes automotive, aerospace, marine, construction, electronics, medical, and food processing industries, each leveraging the unique properties for specific benefits.
- Their demand dictates market trends and product specifications, influencing manufacturers to develop tailored solutions that meet industry-specific performance requirements, safety standards, and cost expectations.
- Distributors and Retailers — Serve as intermediaries, bridging the gap between manufacturers and diverse end-users. They manage inventory, logistics, and provide local support, ensuring efficient market reach for superhydrophobic stainless steel products and coatings.
- Their expertise in regional markets and established sales channels are crucial for market penetration, particularly for specialized or high-value products that require specific handling or technical guidance during distribution.
- Regulatory Bodies and Standardization Organizations — Establish safety standards, environmental guidelines, and performance benchmarks for materials and coatings. They play a vital role in ensuring product quality, consumer safety, and environmental compliance within the industry.
- Their influence ensures that all market participants adhere to necessary regulations, fostering trust and facilitating the widespread adoption of superhydrophobic stainless steel surfaces by providing a framework for reliable product evaluation.
Report Coverage & Key Deliverables
The report delivers a comprehensive analysis of the Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface, combining quantitative data with qualitative insights. It offers a meticulous examination of market dynamics, including key drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges that shape the industry landscape. Decision-makers can leverage this report to understand the current market size, historical trends, and an accurate forecast of future growth trajectory up to 2033. The study delves into detailed segmentation across various parameters, providing granular insights into product types, applications, and end-use industries. Furthermore, it offers an in-depth regional and country-level analysis, highlighting market performance across major geographies and identifying high-growth pockets. This holistic coverage ensures that stakeholders gain a clear, actionable understanding of the Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface market, enabling informed strategic planning and investment decisions.
Report Coverage
- Market Size Estimates (historical and forecast)
- This section provides precise market size figures for the Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface market, covering historical data from 2021 to 2025 and an extensive forecast period from 2026 to 2033. The estimates are presented in USD Billion, offering a clear quantitative perspective on market evolution and future potential, derived through robust analytical methodologies.
- Detailed Segmentation And Revenue Analysis
- The report meticulously breaks down the Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface market by Type, Application, and End-Use Industry. Each segment's revenue contribution is analyzed, providing insights into its growth patterns, market share, and future prospects. This granular analysis helps identify key areas of investment and strategic focus within the market taxonomy.
- Regional And Country-Level Insights
- A comprehensive geographical analysis covers North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa, with specific country-level data where available. This section contrasts the market maturity, growth drivers, and regulatory landscapes across regions, offering a critical understanding of regional market dynamics and investment opportunities.
- Competitive Benchmarking Of Key Players
- The report profiles leading companies in the Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface market, analyzing their business strategies, product portfolios, recent developments, and market positioning. This competitive benchmarking offers insights into the strategic moves of key players, helping stakeholders understand the competitive intensity and identify potential partners or acquisition targets.
- Customization Options Based on Specific Requirements
- Clients have the flexibility to request customized reports tailored to their specific business needs. This includes deeper dives into particular segments, regions, or competitive analyses. The customization ensures that the deliverables precisely address unique strategic questions and provide maximum value for decision-making.
Recent Industry Insights
The Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface industry trends over the last 12-18 months indicate a strong push towards sustainable and highly durable solutions. Recent developments include significant advancements in fluorine-free superhydrophobic coatings, addressing environmental concerns and expanding market acceptability. Partnerships between material science companies and automotive manufacturers are accelerating the integration of these surfaces for enhanced vehicle protection and aesthetics. Furthermore, there has been an increased focus on developing self-healing superhydrophobic coatings, promising extended product lifespans and reduced maintenance. Investments in scalable manufacturing technologies, such as atmospheric pressure plasma deposition, are also on the rise, aiming to bring down production costs and facilitate wider adoption across various industrial applications, including marine and aerospace. These innovations are collectively shaping the future growth trajectory of the market.
Key Market Developments
- January 2025: AkzoNobel N.V. announced a strategic partnership with a leading automotive manufacturer to integrate advanced superhydrophobic coatings into new vehicle models, focusing on enhanced durability and self-cleaning features.
- November 2024: NEI Corporation launched a new line of environmentally friendly, fluorine-free superhydrophobic coatings designed for industrial applications, addressing growing demand for sustainable material solutions.
- August 2024: Researchers at a prominent European university achieved a breakthrough in developing self-healing superhydrophobic surfaces, potentially revolutionizing the longevity and maintenance requirements of coated stainless steel.
- May 2024: Nippon Steel Corporation invested significantly in expanding its production capacity for specialized stainless steel sheets with integrated superhydrophobic properties, targeting the construction and marine sectors in Asia Pacific.
- February 2024: PPG Industries, Inc. introduced a new spray-on superhydrophobic coating system, making application easier and more cost-effective for various industrial clients, particularly in the United States.
Analyst Opinion
The Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface market outlook is exceptionally promising, marked by high attractiveness driven by the intrinsic value proposition of enhanced material performance and durability. The market's competitive intensity is moderately consolidated, with a few large players holding significant shares, but ample room for specialized innovators to thrive, particularly in niche applications demanding unique performance characteristics. The demand-supply balance is currently leaning towards increasing demand, propelled by growing awareness across industries about the cost savings and efficiency gains associated with these advanced surfaces. Industries such as automotive, marine, and aerospace are primary demand drivers, seeking solutions for corrosion, biofouling, and icing. This robust demand, coupled with ongoing technological advancements, positions the market for sustained and aggressive growth over the forecast period, making it a compelling area for strategic investment and development for both established companies and agile startups.
The long-term outlook for the Superhydrophobic Stainless Steel Surface market remains highly positive, underpinned by continuous innovation in nanotechnology and material science. Emerging trends such as self-healing coatings, multi-functional surfaces combining superhydrophobicity with anti-bacterial or anti-fouling properties, and the development of eco-friendly, fluorine-free formulations will define the future landscape. Key risk factors include the high initial investment required for R&D and advanced manufacturing processes, as well as challenges in ensuring long-term durability and mechanical stability of coatings in extreme environments. However, strategic implications suggest that companies focusing on scalable production methods, robust performance validation, and sustainable material development will be best positioned to capitalize on this expanding market. Collaborative efforts between academia and industry will be crucial for overcoming existing technical hurdles and unlocking the full commercial potential of superhydrophobic stainless steel surfaces.