A smart dynamic self-induced orientable multiple size nano-roughness with amphiphilic feature as a stain-repellent hydrophilic surface

Recently developing bioinspired super-hydrophobic surfaces to achieve self-cleaning properties has been driving numerous researches. However, hydrophilicity is one of the most important features of garment comfort. Therefore, accomplishing self-cleaning and stain repellency on hydrophilic surfaces would be a high topic of interest. This research is concerned with wettability mechanism; static and dynamic study of contact angle through water droplet absorption on the multiple scale nano-roughness covered by different weight ratio of oppositely charged inorganic nanoparticles and amino-functionalized polysiloxane. The results revealed that the second layer of the resin formed on the surface can show an amphiphilic hybrid block copolymer-like feature whose dual action can be intensified during water droplet absorption by the created multiple size nano-roughness. This unique structure can create a stain repellent but hydrophilic surface with exceptional advantages. The mechanism has been deeply discussed according to the evidence on droplet edge interfacial energy changes as a driving force to overcome meta-stable Cassie state on the multiple size nano-roughness with amphiphilic feature. A lotus-like nano-roughness has been also observed on the SEM micrographs. Based on a statistically approached experimental design, the effect of variant factors on droplet absorption time, static, advancing, receding contact angles and self-cleaning properties has been mathematically modeled according to the response surface methodology (RSM). (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.