Controlling the wettability of mesh substrates by post-functionalization using the Huisgen reaction

Abstract

This work reports for the first time the use of electrodeposition to prepare platform mesh substrates with controlled wettability by post-functionalization. First, PEDOT nanofibers with azido (N3) groups are electrodeposited around the mesh wires. Then, the Huisgen reaction is used using various alkynes (alkyl, perfluoroalkyl and aryl) in order to graft different hydrophobic substituents on the surface. This work shows the huge impact of the post-treatment on both the surface morphology and wettability. This also shows the possibility to start from a unique platform mesh to prepare oleophilic (θ < 5°)/superhydrophobic (θ > 150°) or highly oleophobic (θ > 120° with hexadecane)/superhydrophobic surfaces (θ > 150°). Such kind of technology could be used as separation devices to oil and water, for example.