Injection molded superhydrophobic surfaces based on microlithography and black silicon processing

This work is concerned with the design, development, and testing of nanostructured polymer surfaces with self-cleaning properties that can be manufactured by injection molding. In particular, the superimposed micro- and nanometer length scales of the so-called Lotus effect were investigated in detail with an engineering perspective on choice of materials and manufacturability by injection molding. Microscope slides with superhydrophobic properties were succesfully fabricated. Preliminary results indicate a contact angle increase from 95 degrees for the unstructured polymer to a maximum 150 degrees. The lowest drop roll off angles observed were in the range 1 degrees to 5 degrees.