Two-dimensional positive or negative patterning of submicrometer silica spheres on polyimide via ion implantation and selective adsorption

In this paper, we report a large-area 2D patterning technique via ion implantation and selective adsorption. It is found that the surface zeta potential (xi) of polyimide (PI) can be changed by implanting different types of metal ions. On the surface of the Cu or Ni ion patterned implanted polyimide, both negative and positive adsorption patterns of submicrometer silica particles can be realized. The formation of different patterns is mainly decided by the surface zeta potential contrast ratio between implanted part and the unimplanted part of PI and the zeta potential of particles. Moreover, the shape of the patterns can be regulated by changing the liquid surface tension.