Carbon black-based NIR-responsive superhydrophobic shape memory microplate array with switchable adhesion for droplets and bubbles manipulation

Superhydrophobic stimuli-responsive shape memory polymer (SMP) surfaces with tunable wettability have been extensively explored, but in situ reversibly switching ability as well as selectively capturing and releasing different liquids or bubbles, unfortunately, is still a blockage. Here, we fabricated a kind of light-responsive superhydrophobic SMP microplate array by utilizing femtosecond laser ablation and replica-mold method to achieve in situ switchable adhesion. By combining the photothermal effect of carbon black with the shape memory effect of SMP, the reversible switching between the upright state and temporary bending state of the microplate array can be readily realized. Simultaneously, the apparent force for the microplate array can be reversibly switched between low and high adhesion. More significantly, the current surface is competent for the amphibious manipulator, that is, the microplate array is adaptive for the selective capture and release of droplets as well as underwater bubbles. The current superhydrophobic SMP microplate array will have potential applications in intelligent droplet and bubble operation.

Automated summary

A light-responsive superhydrophobic SMP microplate array was created using femtosecond laser ablation and replica-mold method, allowing in situ switchable adhesion between upright and temporary bending states. This adaptive microplate array is capable of selectively capturing and releasing droplets and underwater bubbles, showing potential applications in intelligent droplet and bubble operation.