The Direct Laser Interference Patterning (DLIP) technique has been used to create a functionalized surface on stainless steel (black area). In combination with an additional post-treatment, the metal surface has extremely water-repellent properties with contact angles of over 150 degrees. The microscopic surface exhibits “miniature mountains” that create a superhydrophobic surface, similar to its natural pendent on a lotus leaf. The sample was placed under water (no wetting of the structured areas is observed) to emphasize the water repellency. Consequently, even if the surface gets wet, it actually stays dry in the laser processed areas. Finally, DLIP allows for self-cleaning properties on technological surfaces at industrially-relevant throughput.
European ESRs Network On Short Pulsed Laser Micro/Nanostructuring Of Surfaces
