Reversible Superhydrophobicity to Superhydrophilicity Transition by Extending and Unloading an Elastic Polyamide Film

Abstract

Abstract Summary: Reversible switching between superhydrophobic and superhydrophilic wettability of a polyamide film with a triangular net‐like structure can be achieved by biaxially extending and unloading the elastic film. Both the change of the average side‐length of the triangular net‐like structure upon biaxial extension and unloading, and the surface tension of the water droplet, are believed to be responsible for the reversible switching between superhydrophobicity and superhydrophilicity. Change in structure and wettability of the triangular net‐like polyamide film upon extension and unloading. image Change in structure and wettability of the triangular net‐like polyamide film upon extension and unloading.