Harnessing localized ridges for high-aspect-ratio hierarchical patterns with dynamic tunability and multifunctionality.

Cao, Changyong; Chan, Hon Fai; Zang, Jianfeng; Leong, Kam W; Zhao, Xuanhe · Adv Mater · 2014

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

A simple method for fabricating high-aspect-ratio, hierarchical, and dynamically tunable surface patterns is invented by harnessing localized-ridge instabilities in gold nanofilms coated on elastomer substrates (a); a theoretical model to calculate the critical parameters (e.g., wavelength and amplitude) for designing the new patterns is developed (b); and novel applications of the patterns as super-hydrophobic coatings (c) and biomimetic cell-culture substrates (d) capable of on-demand tunability are demonstrated.

Medical subject headings