One-Step Deposition Process to Obtain Nanostructured Superhydrophobic Thin Films by Galvanic Exchange Reactions

Superhydrophobic thin films of silver were fabricated on copper substrates by galvanic ion exchange reactions in a one-step process by immersing copper substrates in silver nitrate solution containing fluoroalkylsilane in different quantities. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses confirmed the formation of silver films on copper substrates and the fractal-like morphological features of the silver films were confirmed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The contact angle of water on these surfaces is found to be greater than 165 degrees, demonstrating water repellency with water drops rolling off the surfaces. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) depth profile confirms the presence of fluorine in the silver films. (C) Koninklijke Brill NV, Leiden, 2010