Abstract
AbstractSlanted high‐aspect‐ratio polymer pillars are studied for their unique properties such as unidirectional spreading of liquid, directional adhesions, or alignment of cells, where the pillars are in constant contact with water or in a humid environment. These pillars, however, tend to cluster upon water evaporation due to the capillary force and lowered modulus of the pillars. Here, spontaneous recovery of clustered slanted hydrogel pillars to their original shape is presented by exploiting the modulus change of hydrogel materials during water evaporation. The clustering and recovery of the slanted hydrogel micropillars are monitored in situ by optical microscopy and environmental scanning electron microscopy. To elucidate sequential clustering and recovery mechanism, the adhesion force between the pillars and the restoring force is compared. Finally, the dynamic change of optical transparency is exploited as the result of switching between clustering and recovery of the slanted micropillars for display. The study of the deformation and recovery of slanted hydrogel pillars will offer insights into geometrical and material designs in water‐based applications.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
