Alkylsilane self-assembled monolayers: modeling their wetting characteristics

The analysis of wetting behavior of self-assembled monolayers of alkylsilanes is presented. A simple model accounting for various surface fractions of CH3 and CH2 groups (self-assembly order/disorder) is used. The effect of inclusion of air in the structure of rough silanized surfaces is also considered. The importance of reduced solid-water contact area and assembly order of organic monomers is demonstrated for achieving both high contact angle and low sliding angle. As coatings with low surface energy, these materials may be of potential use for ice-repellent purposes. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.