Biomimetic nanofiber patterns with controlled wettability

Abstract

Fast and easy construction of biomimetic surfaces with controlled wettability was accomplished through electrospinning. The topography and wetting properties of biosurfaces including lotus leaves, bamboo leaves, goose feathers and water strider's legs were mimicked with different patterns of electrospun polymer nanofibers. Surfaces with anisotropic wetting in two or three directions, as well as artificial water strider's legs with maximal supporting force of more than 200 dynes cm⁻¹ were facilely fabricated based on an electrospinning technique combined with specially designed nanofiber collectors. We believe these polymer nanofiber patterns will help the design of smart, fluid-controllable interfaces that may be applied in novel microfluidic devices and directional, easy-cleaning coatings.