Development of a roll-to-roll hot imprinting process for superhydrophobic polytetrafluoroethylene surfaces

Abstract

Potential applications of superhydrophobic surfaces have attracted many researchers. Although numerous methods have been suggested to achieve superhydrophobic surfaces on various types of materials, only a few methods are suitable for process simplicity, productivity and large area applicability. In this study, we developed a roll-to-roll hot imprinting process for superhydrophobic surfaces to overcome such limitations. Hierarchical patterns were fabricated on the roll surface through wire electrical discharge machining. Through the roll-to-roll hot imprinting process using the pattern roll, the hierarchical patterns were transferred to the polytetrafluoroethylene surface. As a result, superhydrophobic surfaces with a water contact angle of 150° or more were obtained.