One-step modification of fabrics with bioinspired polydopamine@octadecylamine nanocapsules for robust and healable self-cleaning performance.

An in-situ polymerization to coat fabrics with polydopamine-encapsulated octadecylamine endows the fabrics with self-cleaning and self-healing abilities. The treated fabric exhibits self-healing after losing its hydrophobicity. It is durable against washing and mechanical abrasion without changing the hydrophobicity. Thanks to the versatile adhesive property of polydopamine, the approach is compatibile with a variety of substrates, such as fabrics, glass, sponge, paper, and polymeric materials.