Hierarchical silicon etched structures for controlled hydrophobicity/superhydrophobicity

Nano Lett. 2007 Nov;7(11):3388-93. doi: 10.1021/nl0717457. Epub 2007 Oct 11.

Abstract

Silicon surface hydrophobicity has been varied by using silane treatments on silicon pyramid surfaces generated by KOH anisotropic etching. Results demonstrated that by altering the surface hydrophobicity, the apparent contact angle changed in accord with the Wenzel equation for surface structures with inclined side walls. Hierarchical structures were also constructed from Si pyramids where nanostructures were added by Au-assisted electroless HF/H2O2 etching. Surface hydrophobicity and superhydrophobicity were achieved by surface modification with a variety of silanes. Stability of the Cassie state of superhydrophobicity is described with respect to the Laplace pressure as indicated by the water droplet meniscus in contact with the hierarchical structures. The contact angle hysteresis observed is also discussed with respect to water/substrate adhesion.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Anisotropy
  • Hydrofluoric Acid / chemistry
  • Hydrogen Peroxide / chemistry
  • Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions
  • Hydroxides / chemistry*
  • Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
  • Models, Statistical
  • Potassium Compounds / chemistry*
  • Pressure
  • Silanes / chemistry*
  • Silicon / chemistry*
  • Substrate Specificity
  • Surface Properties
  • Temperature
  • Time Factors
  • Water / chemistry

Substances

  • Hydroxides
  • Potassium Compounds
  • Silanes
  • Water
  • Hydrogen Peroxide
  • Hydrofluoric Acid
  • potassium hydroxide
  • Silicon