Superomniphobic Aluminum

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Superomniphobic Aluminum

Nanotechnology / Materials

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Hiroki Habazaki Professor

Faculty of Engineering

Hokkaido University Researcher Directory

Simple production of antifouling surfaces through a wet process

We have successfully fabricated a micro/nano-hierarchical surface morphology through chemical etching/anodization of aluminum sheets and meshes. By coating the surface with a fluoroalkyl monolayer, we have also succeeded in obtaining a surface that is not wetted by almost any liquids, including oil.

Content of research

It is expected that superomniphobic surfaces, which do not get wet with water or oil, will possess antifouling and self-cleaning properties. In this study, we have realized a superomniphobic surface that does not only repel water but also octane and other liquids with a surface tension as low as 20 mN m-1, by using a simple wet process for aluminum, which is a practical metal material. This process can also be applied to aluminum foil, which can be used as an antifouling surface in various places. It can also be used as a filter to separate oil and water by controlling its wettability using aluminum mesh.

Potential for social implementation

・Antifouling surface
・Self-cleaning surface
・Deicing and defrosting surface
・Water-oil separation filter

Appealing points to industry and local governments

This technology involves the integration of industrially available surface treatment techniques, and can thus easily be applied to industrial processes.