| Abstract |
Super Hydrophobic Surfaces have a multitude of applications. This paper will highlight the uses and applications of these surfaces and include detailed fabrication methods used to generate samples which display superhydrophobic properties. Super Hydrophobic Surfaces (SHS) are surfaces that are highly resistant to water or other liquids. SHS are characterized by their topography and chemical properties. Many of these properties and interactions can be observed in nature, such as the lotus flower, which repels water through its surface chemistry and the microstructures on the leaf. This natural phenomenon can be replicated by researchers to create anti-corrosive, anti-biofouling, anti-icing and other desirable properties for surfaces. The focus of this project notes the importance and benefits of not only the hydrophobic chemistry and the nanostructure, but also a microstructure fabricated on the surface. By observing prior attempts to create an artificial super-hydrophobic surface, the team has created a method that uses a Micro/Nano-scopic roughness known as a dual scale roughness. By using a microstructure created by CNC machining, and using a spray coating consisting of chemically altered nanoparticles on a surface, the overall surface energy will increase resulting in a high contact angle, and a SHS. By conducting tests, such as a water droplet test, contact angle of test, and sliding angle test to determine if the restraints listed above are met to classify the surface as super hydrophobic. |
