Superoleophobic Slippery Lubricant-Infused Surfaces: Combining Two Extremes in the Same Surface

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Surface Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Superoleophobic surfaces repel low-surface-tension liquids, crucial for many applications.
• Existing methods often use re-entrant micro/nanotopography.
• Lubricant-infused surfaces offer additional repellency by creating liquid-liquid interfaces.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel slippery superoleophobic surface with low adhesion.
• To combine doubly re-entrant microtopography with lubricant-infused surfaces.
• To enhance liquid repellency, anti-icing, and anti-fouling properties.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of doubly re-entrant micropillars with top nanostructures using 3D direct laser writing.
• Infusion of a slippery lubricant into the porous nanostructures.
• Characterization of surface properties using scanning droplet adhesion microscopy (SDAM).

Main Results:

• The developed surface demonstrated superoleophobicity due to the doubly re-entrant micropillars.
• The slippery lubricant layer significantly reduced liquid adhesion.
• The nanostructures successfully stabilized the lubricant, preventing spreading.

Conclusions:

• A novel slippery superoleophobic surface was successfully created by integrating doubly re-entrant structures and lubricant infusion.
• This combined approach yields surfaces with enhanced liquid repellency, low adhesion, and potential for anti-icing and anti-fouling applications.
• The study highlights the potential of combining different surface engineering strategies for advanced material properties.