CC BY
0Laser control of wettability metals and glass surfaces:
new applications
G.V. Romanova1, V.P. Veiko1, I.A. Filatov1, A.G. Bondarenko1, E.A. Davydova1
1-ITMO University, Saint-Petersburg, Russia
Laser methods have been developed to control the wettability of the surface of metals and glasses for various applications: the creation of microfluidic systems, protection against biofouling in an aquatic environment, reducing corrosion resistance, etc.
The phenomenon of wetting plays an important role in the life of many plants and animals, helping them both to obtain moisture and to protect themselves from its excess. By recreating biomimetic structures on the surface of parts and devices, we can give them similar surface properties. By controlling the wettability of the surface of metals and glasses, we can influence other functional properties: the superhydrophilic surface of metal implants promotes the adhesion of proteins at the initial stages of osseointegration [1], and increasing hydrophobicity on the surface of metal products, creating so-called "slippery" coatings, gives the surface antibacterial properties [2]. The hydrophobic properties of the surface of steel and aluminum lead to a reduction in their biofouling in an aquatic environment by reducing the adhesion of microorganisms [3] and contribute to protection against corrosion in an air environment with high humidity [4].
In this work, we propose to use laser irradiation as a means of controlling the wettability of metal and glass surfaces. Unlike traditional chemical and mechanical methods, laser processing provides locality (the ability to create local areas with different contact angles), environmental friendliness (the ability to change contact angles without the use of additional materials) and a non-contact approach. We are studying the effect of laser-induced topography on surface wettability with the goal of minimizing biofouling on steel surfaces in aqueous environments and increasing the corrosion resistance of steel in high-humidity air environments. The formation of a stable hydrophobic wetting gradient on the steel surface is shown, which promotes the movement of droplets at a speed of 33 mm/s over a distance of 12 mm. The technology for laser recording of microfluidic systems on quartz glass for biochemical applications is also demonstrated.
This research was supported by Priority 2030 Federal Academic Leadership Program.
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