Wetting Behavior Driven by Surface Morphology Changes Induced by Picosecond Laser Texturing

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Surface Engineering
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Laser surface texturing (LST) enhances adhesion and creates hydrophobic surfaces.
• Surface polarity and wetting properties are controlled by LST parameters.
• Developing controlled hydrophobic surfaces is crucial for various applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• Systematically select laser and scan head parameters for high-quality metal surface topography.
• Correlate texturing parameters with wetting properties for technological applications.
• Investigate environmental dust effects on picosecond laser-textured surfaces.

Main Methods:

• Utilized scanning electron microscopy and profilometry for surface analysis.
• Employed laser surface texturing (LST) on metal-based materials (titanium, nickel).
• Monitored ambient conditions and environmental dust influence on surface properties.

Main Results:

• Achieved periodic microchannels with laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS).
• Observed a wide range of water contact angles (20°–100°) based on material.
• Identified challenges in wettability transition time and environmental influences.

Conclusions:

• LST offers precise control over surface topography and wetting characteristics of metals.
• Optimized LST parameters are key for conformal layer growth on textured surfaces.
• Environmental dust impacts the long-term stability and properties of laser-textured surfaces.