Molecular and Nanoparticles vapor deposition methods to create super hydro/oleophobic surfaces

Abstract

In this paper, glassslide surfaces were functionalized using nanoparticles vapor deposition (NVD) and molecular vapor deposition (MVD) techniques. The NVD technique allowed the deposition of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) nanoparticles on the surface.  The MVDtechnique allowed the deposition of a thin layer of (Tridecafluoro-1,1,2,2,-tetrahydrooctyl)trichlorosilane (FOTS). Nanoparticles deposition increased the surface roughness, leading to higher contact angles when compared to surfaces treated with only FOTS.Fourier Transform Infrared spectra showed the presence of peaks corresponding to fluorocarbon chains and Al₂O₃on the functionalized surfaces. Dynamic contact angles of aqueous and organic solutions were measured in order to assess hydrophobic/oleophobic properties. The surface free energies of the samples were calculated using different methods. Dynamic contact angles higher than 150º were obtained for water and other organic liquids for functionalized samples. In addition,glass slides treated with Al₂O₃nanoparticles followed byFOTS layer showed low hysteresis when performing advancing and receding contact angles with water and hexadecane, thus,indicating super hydro/oleophobic properties.