Highly Stable and Transparent Slippery Surface on Silica Glass Fabricated by Femtosecond Laser

Underwater optical window plays an important role in ocean detection. Studies show that marine biofouling is one of the biggest challenges that affect the performance of the optical window. Recently, nepenthes-inspired lubrication-infused slippery surfaces (SLIPS) with excellent anti-biological adsorption features have been widely used to resolve this problem. However, low mechanical resistance and the easy loss of infused lubricants affect the slippery capability of this method. In the present study, a novel 3D bionic slippery surface was fabricated using a femtosecond laser wet etching on silica glass. In this method, the lubricant of the compartment structure SLIPS is stored in the inner compartment and is transported to the surface under the effect of the capillary forth. The unique structure of the proposed scheme dramatically improved the surface durability compared with the normal SLIPS, and does not affect the intrinsic transparency of the substrate material. The performed analyses revealed that the proposed scheme has excellent optical transmittance and durability, and is expected to have wide applications in the ocean detection field.

Automated summary

Underwater optical windows are crucial for ocean detection, but are often affected by marine biofouling. A new 3D bionic slippery surface, created using femtosecond laser wet etching, has been developed to combat these challenges and improve surface durability without compromising transparency. This innovative solution shows great potential for wide applications in ocean detection.