A Review of Smart Superwetting Surfaces Based on Shape-Memory Micro/Nanostructures

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Surface Science
• Polymer Science

Background:

• Bioinspired superwetting surfaces offer advanced functionalities like self-cleaning and oil-water separation.
• Current smart surfaces primarily rely on surface chemistry changes, limiting novel functions.
• Microstructure regulation offers greater control and unique properties compared to chemistry-based approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review recent advancements in smart superwetting surfaces based on shape-memory polymers (SMPs).
• To highlight fabrication methods, observed superwetting phenomena, and application fields of SMP-based smart surfaces.
• To discuss current challenges and future prospects in this research area.

Main Methods:

• Focuses on reviewing existing literature on SMP fabrication for superwetting surfaces.
• Analyzes how SMP microstructure regulation leads to diverse superwetting behaviors.
• Categorizes applications based on the smart superwettability achieved.

Main Results:

• SMPs offer a unique approach to creating smart superwetting surfaces by controlling surface microstructure.
• Achieved superwettabilities include tunable adhesion superhydrophobicity/superomniphobicity, reversible hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity switching, and switchable anisotropic wetting.
• Novel phenomena like slippery surfaces with tunable wettability and underwater superaerophobicity/superoleophobicity are demonstrated.

Conclusions:

• Smart superwetting SMP surfaces present a promising platform for advanced material functionalities.
• Microstructure control via SMPs unlocks novel wettability states and tunable adhesion.
• Further research into fabrication and application is crucial for realizing the full potential of these materials.