Insights into the interplay of wetting and transport in mesoporous silica films

Influence of Wettability on the Impedance of Ion Transport Through Mesoporous Silica Films

“…As shown in previous studies, the thickness of mesoporous silica thin films is around 170 nm with a pore diameter of 6–8 nm and a neck diameter of 2–3 nm, which was determined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and ellipsometry. [ 26 ] Gradually adjusted wettability of the mesoporous silica film is achieved by functionalization using PFODMCS, as reported in a previous study. [ 26 ] The resulting apparent contact angle (CA) can be adjusted by the functionalization time and therefore depends on the amount of the perfluorinated silane ( Figure b).…”

“…[ 26 ] Gradually adjusted wettability of the mesoporous silica film is achieved by functionalization using PFODMCS, as reported in a previous study. [ 26 ] The resulting apparent contact angle (CA) can be adjusted by the functionalization time and therefore depends on the amount of the perfluorinated silane ( Figure b). Hydrophilic unfunctionalized silica thin films (CA ≈ 20°) and functionalized films with CAs of ≈45°, ≈70°, and ≈80° were used in this study to analyze the wettability dependent ionic pore accessibility with impedance spectroscopy.…”

“…The mesoporous thin films were functionalized with 1H, 1H, 2H, 2H‐perfluorooctyl dimethylchlorosilane (PFODMCS) to control the wettability reflected by a contact angle [ 25 ] between 20° and 80° as described in a previous study. [ 26 ]…”

Extending Lifetime of Water Droplets Using Mirror‐Nanoporous Surfaces

“…In that respect, it is noteworthy that nanopore properties and network morphology can be readily controlled by tuning synthesis parameters [31] or by means of pore functionalization. [32] In this way, the infiltration into the nanopore space can be tailored. [12][13][14]32] Furthermore, the nanoporous coatings are readily integrated into large areas (including 3D geometries) and implemented in miniaturized devices, [13] allowing the system configuration to be designed according to different technical requirements.…”

“…[32] In this way, the infiltration into the nanopore space can be tailored. [12][13][14]32] Furthermore, the nanoporous coatings are readily integrated into large areas (including 3D geometries) and implemented in miniaturized devices, [13] allowing the system configuration to be designed according to different technical requirements. Our findings therefore suggest that a low-cost and customized strategy to enhance the useful life of droplets in a variety of applications is ready to emerge.…”