Self-cleaning superhydrophobic nanocomposite surfaces generated by laser pulse heating

Abstract Micro- and nanostructured surfaces are known to induce anti-wetting and self-cleaning properties. However, traditional formation of these structures is difficult and requires high-resolution micro- and nanofabrication methods. Here, we demonstrate a facile method for the formation of superhydrophobic self-cleaning surfaces by laser pulse heating of a carbon nanotube-polymer composite. Laser treatment exposes a carbon nanotube network which controls surface wetting properties. Advancing and receding contact angle measurements demonstrate that these surfaces are superhydrophobic. Additionally, surfaces show anti-wetting and self-cleaning properties.