Optically transparent, mechanically durable, nanostructured superhydrophobic surfaces enabled by spinodally phase-separated glass thin films

Tolga Aytug, John T. Simpson, Andrew R. Lupini, Rosa M. Trejo, Gerald E. Jellison, Ilia N. Ivanov, Stephen J. Pennycook, Daniel A. Hillesheim, Kyle O. Winter, David K. Christen, Scott R. Hunter, J. Allen Haynes

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    53 Scopus citations

    Abstract

    We describe the formation and properties of atomically bonded, optical quality, nanostructured thin glass film coatings on glass plates, utilizing phase separation by spinodal decomposition in a sodium borosilicate glass system. Following deposition via magnetron sputtering, thermal processing and differential etching, these coatings are structurally superhydrophilic (i.e., display anti-fogging functionality) and demonstrate robust mechanical properties and superior abrasion resistance. After appropriate chemical surface modification, the surfaces display a stable, non-wetting Cassie-Baxter state and exhibit exceptional superhydrophobic performance, with water droplet contact angles as large as 172°. As an added benefit, in both superhydrophobic and superhydrophilic states these nanostructured surfaces can block ultraviolet radiation and can be engineered to be anti-reflective with broadband and omnidirectional transparency. Thus, the present approach could be tailored toward distinct coatings for numerous markets, such as residential windows, windshields, specialty optics, goggles, electronic and photovoltaic cover glasses, and optical components used throughout the US military.

    Original languageEnglish
    Article number315602
    JournalNanotechnology
    Volume24
    Issue number31
    DOIs
    StatePublished - Aug 9 2013

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