One-step fabrication of near superhydrophobic aluminum surface by nanosecond laser ablation

Abstract

Inspired by the micro and nano structures of biological surface such as lotus leaf, rice leaves, etc. a functional near superhydrophobic surface of pure aluminum has been fabricated using one-step nanosecond laser processing. Thin aluminum sheets are micro-patterned with ultraviolet laser pulses to create near superhydrophobic surface in one-step direct laser writing technique. The impact of number of pulses/microhole with respect to the geometry and static contact angle measurements has been investigated. The microstructure shows the formation of blind microholes along with the micro-wall by laser processing, which improves the composite interface between the three phases such as water, air and solid, thus enhance the wetting property of the surface. The geometrical changes are supported by the chemical changes induced on the surface for improving the degree of hydrophobicity. Laser processed microholes exhibited near superhydrophobic surface with SCA measurement of 148±3°. The static contact angle values are very consistent for repeated measurement at same area and across the laser patterned surface.