Abstract
Mesoscale pore one–dimensional (1D) nanostructures, or vertically aligned porous nanostructures (VAPNs), have attracted attention with their excellent hydrophobic properties, ultra−high surface area, and high friction coefficient, compared to conventional vertically aligned nanostructures (VANs). In this study, we investigate the replication of VAPNs produced by the thermal nanoimprint process using anodic aluminum oxide (AAO2) templates (100 nm diameter). Polystyrene/poly(vinyl alcohol) (PS1/PVA) blends, prepared by the advanced melt–mixing process with an ultra–high shear rate, are used to investigate the formation of porosity at the nanometer scale. The results reveal that domain size and mass ratios of PVA precursors in the PS matrix play a dominant role in the interfacial interaction behavior between PS1–PVA–AAO2, on the obtained morphologies of the imprinted nanostructures. With a PVA nanodomain precursor (PS1/PVA 90/10 wt%), the integration of PVA nanodroplets on the AAO2 wall due to the hydrogen bonding that induces the phase separation between PS1–PVA results in the formation of VAPNs after removal of the PVA segment. However, in the case of PVA microdomain precursors (PS1/PVA 70/30 wt%), the structure transformation behavior of PS1 is induced by the Rayleigh instability between PVA encapsulated around the PS1 surfaces, resulting in the PS1 nanocolumns transforming into nanopeapods composed of nanorods and nanospheres.
Highlights
One-dimensional nanostructures inspired by the nature of gecko feet have attracted considerable attention because of their versatile applications such as self-cleaning surfaces, dry adhesives, and for novel applications of thermally and electrically conductive materials [1,2,3,4,5]
We mainly focus on the formation of vertically aligned porous nanostructures (VAPNs) fabricated using thermal nanoimprint with anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) templates
We investigate the phase separation and the transformation behaviors of polymer blends confined in AAOs
Summary
One-dimensional nanostructures inspired by the nature of gecko feet have attracted considerable attention because of their versatile applications such as self-cleaning surfaces, dry adhesives, and for novel applications of thermally and electrically conductive materials [1,2,3,4,5]. The hydrophobic surface of the cicada wing is covered with natural vertically aligned nanostructures (VANs) which can penetrate and kill. Hydrophobic properties, (2) surface areas, and (3) bacteria adherence For this reason, vertically aligned porous nanostructures (VAPNs) have attracted significant attention, with outstanding hydrophobic higher friction properties and ultra-high surface area, because of the nanoscale porosity and surface roughness.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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.
