Finger-like
radial hierarchical micropillars with folded tips are
observed on the surface of the rose pistil stigma (RPS). Impressively,
a water droplet on the surface of the RPS presents a spherical shape
and it still hangs on the surface even when the RPS is turned over.
Superhydrophobicity and high adhesion to water are demonstrated on
the RPS, which is beneficial for the RPS to remain clean and fresh.
The special wetting behavior of the RPS is highly related to its hierarchical
microstructures and surface chemistry. Finger-like hierarchical micropillars
with a high aspect ratio are capable of retaining air to support superhydrophobicity
while the microgap between the micropillars and on the hydrophilic
tips enables the RPS to retain a high adhesion to water. These findings
about the unique wetting behaviors of the RPS may provide inspiration
for the design and fabrication of functional wetting surfaces for
diverse applications such as microdroplet manipulation, three-dimensional
cell culture, and microfluidics.
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