Multiscale Structures Aggregated by Imprinted Nanofibers for Functional Surfaces

Abstract

Multiscale surface structures have attracted increasing interest owing to several potential applications in surface devices. However, an existing challenge in the field is the fabrication of hybrid micro-nano structures using a facile, cost-effective, and high-throughput method. To overcome these challenges, this paper proposes a protocol to fabricate multiscale structures using only an imprint process with an anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) filter and an evaporative self-aggregation process of nanofibers. Unlike previous attempts that have aimed to straighten nanofibers, we demonstrate a unique fabrication method for multiscale aggregated nanofibers with high aspect ratios. Furthermore, the surface morphology and wettability of these structures on various liquids were investigated to facilitate their use in multifunctional surfaces.

Formation of Multiscale Porous Surfaces via Evaporation-Induced Aggregation of Imprinted Nanowires with Highly Viscous Photocurable Materials

“…An efficient method known for fabricating nanoscale high-aspect-ratio structures, such as nanowires, involves the use of AAO substrates, known for their ease of use and cost-effectiveness [23,24]. AAO substrates possess numerous nanoscale pores and microscale heights, facilitating the fabrication of uniform, high-aspect-ratio nanowires.…”