Surface properties of honeycomb and pincushion structures of various hydrophobic polymer materials prepared by self-organization

Surface wettability is a significant factor in determining the physical and chemical properties of materials. It is known that both the chemical properties of the surface and its topography play important roles. A honeycomb-structured polymer film can be prepared by casting a hydrophobic polymer solution under humid conditions. Here, we measured water repellency on the honeycomb- and pincushion-structured films of various kinds of hydrophobic polymers. We show that the honeycomb- and pincushion-structured films of hydrophobic polymers have high water repellent properties. Especially, the water contact angles on pincushion-structured films are over 130°. From the results of these experiments, it appears that the surface structures prepared by self-organization process enhance the hydrophobicity of the surface. An easy process for creating highly water repellent surfaces is required to utilize these surfaces in industrial applications. Thus, the simple self-organization process has advantages from the standpoint of application.