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Engineering Wettability Transitions on Laser-Textured Shark Skin-Inspired Surfaces via Chemical Post-Processing
Elham Lori Zoudani1, Nam-Trung Nguyen1, Navid Kashaninejad1
1Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, 170 Kessels Road, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia.
Micromachines
|January 8, 2025
Summary
Researchers modified laser-textured surfaces with shark skin-inspired patterns using four methods. Silanization achieved the most durable superhydrophobic properties, demonstrating effective control over surface wettability for practical applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Surface Science
- Tribology
Background:
- Surface wettability governs liquid-surface interactions, impacting droplet behavior and flow dynamics.
- Tailoring surface wetting properties is crucial for diverse technological applications.
- Laser texturing and advanced fabrication enable the creation of surfaces with unique wettability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the wettability transition of laser-textured anisotropic surfaces.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of four post-processing methods (spray coating, IPA treatment, silicone oil treatment, silanization) on surface wettability.
- To analyze the impact of these treatments on surface morphology and wettability characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Laser texturing to create shark skin-inspired microstructures.
- Surface characterization using water contact angle measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and laser scanning microscopy.
- Application of four distinct post-processing techniques: spray coating, isopropyl alcohol (IPA) treatment, silicone oil treatment, and silanization.
Main Results:
- Untreated surfaces exhibited superhydrophilic behavior.
- All post-processing methods induced a transition to various hydrophobic states.
- Silanization resulted in the highest hydrophobicity and remarkable long-term stability (one year).
- Chemical treatments influenced the degree of hydrophobicity and surface anisotropy.
Conclusions:
- Post-processing techniques offer effective control over surface wettability.
- Silane compounds enhance hydrophobicity and stability due to low surface energy and chemical properties.
- Tailored surface wettability has significant implications for various practical applications.
