Plasma-assisted interface engineering of boron nitride nanostructure films

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Surface Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Surface and interface properties are critical in nanoscale science and technology.
• Wetting of solids is a key phenomenon governed by interfacial interactions.
• Controlling surface wettability is essential for material performance and device functionality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a facile method for controlling the wettability of boron nitride (BN) nanostructure films.
• To achieve tunable surface properties ranging from superhydrophilic to hydrophobic.
• To demonstrate the potential for engineering liquid flow and interfacial adhesion.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a one-step plasma method for covalent chemical functionalization of BN nanostructures.
• Tailored the concentration of grafted hydroxyl groups to modify surface energy.
• Created patterned and gradient surfaces by controlling functionalization.

Main Results:

• Successfully controlled the wettability of BN nanosheet and nanotube films, transforming initially superhydrophobic surfaces.
• Generated superhydrophilic, hydrophilic, and hydrophobic patterns on BN films.
• Achieved directional liquid spreading on gradient functionalized films.

Conclusions:

• Plasma functionalization offers a versatile approach to tailor the wettability of ceramic nanostructures.
• The method has significant potential for applications in microfluidics, biosensing, and nanocomposite materials.
• Controlled interfacial properties can enhance liquid flow and improve adhesion in engineered systems.