Laser microstructuring of azopolymers via surface relief gratings: controlling hydrophobicity

In this paper the large-scale mass transport mechanism is used to microstructure azopolymeric films, aiming at controllable hydrophobic surfaces. Using an Ar(+) laser with intensity of 70 mW/cm(2), we produced egg-crate-like surfaces with periods from 1.0 to 3.5 mu m that present distinct wetting properties. The static contact angle of water was measured on the microstructured surfaces, and the results revealed an increase of approximately 9 degrees for a surface pattern period of 2 mu m. Our results indicate the use of the microstructuring method described here for the fabrication of devices with controllable hydrophobicity.

FAPESP (Fundacao de Amparo a Pesquisa do Estado de Sao Paulo)

Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP)

CNPQ (Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnologico)

Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq)

Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) [FA9550-07-1-0374]

U.S. Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR)