Spatially Engraving Morphological Structure on a Polymeric Surface by Ion Beam Milling

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Surface Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Micro/nano scale polymer surface patterning is crucial for microfluidics and biomedical technologies.
• Controlling surface roughness and wettability is essential for advanced material applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose an efficient strategy for fabricating functional polymer surfaces with controlled roughness.
• To investigate the polymer positive diffusion effect (PDE) induced by ion bombardment.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing focused ion beam (FIB) technology for ion bombardment of polymeric hybrid surfaces.
• Theoretically exploring the polymer positive diffusion effect (PDE) by modifying classic diffusion theory.
• Analyzing the conductivity-induced PDE constant based on substrate conductivity, ion energy, and flux.

Main Results:

• Theoretical predictions for conductivity-induced PDE align well with experimental findings.
• Achieved precise control over surface roughness and patterning milling depth.
• Demonstrated controllable surface wettability, creating hydrophobic and superhydrophobic surfaces (contact angles 108.3°–150.8°) with tunable contact angle hysteresis (31.4°–8.3°).

Conclusions:

• The proposed fabrication strategy offers effective control over polymer surface properties.
• The polymer positive diffusion effect (PDE) is a key mechanism for achieving controlled surface modification.
• This method enables the development of advanced functional polymer surfaces for diverse technological applications.