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Molecular dimensions and surface diffusion assisted mechanically robust slippery perfluoropolyether impregnated
Sriharitha Rowthu1, Edin E Balic1, Patrik Hoffmann1
1Laboratory for Advanced Materials Processing, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Feuerwerkerstrasse 39, CH-3602 Thun, Switzerland.
Nanotechnology
|November 1, 2017
Summary
Mechanically robust omniphobic surfaces were created using liquid-impregnated alumina, achieving high wear resistance and low friction for advanced applications. These surfaces demonstrate superior load-bearing capacity compared to existing technologies.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Surface Chemistry
- Tribology
Background:
- Developing mechanically robust omniphobic surfaces is a significant challenge with broad applications.
- Existing omniphobic surfaces often lack durability and load-bearing capacity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create mechanically robust omniphobic surfaces using liquid-impregnated mesoporous alumina.
- To investigate the relationship between impregnating liquid properties and surface performance.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of mesoporous alumina (α-Al2O3) interfaces.
- Impregnation with various liquids including water, alkanes, and acrylic paints.
- Characterization of wear resistance, friction coefficients, and load-bearing capacity.
Main Results:
- Achieved ultra-low friction coefficients (≥0.025) and high abrasion resistance (wear coefficients ≤10^-8 mm^3 N^-1 m^-1).
- Demonstrated exceptional load-bearing capacity up to 350 MPa, significantly exceeding current omniphobic surfaces.
- Identified large molecular size, fast surface diffusion, and low evaporation rate of impregnating liquids as key factors for performance.
Conclusions:
- Liquid-impregnated alumina composites offer a promising route to robust omniphobic surfaces.
- Thermodynamic calculations provide a tool for selecting optimal liquid-matrix combinations.
- These surfaces have potential applications in bioengineering, tribology, and protective coatings.
