Antifouling performance against SiO2 particulate matter adhesion of cyclo olefin polymer nanopillar surfaces

Abstract

The global challenge of soil-derived fine particles, mainly composed of silicon dioxide (SiO₂) and recognized as particulate matter (PM), presents a significant environmental and economic issue, notably contributing to air pollution. Implications such as reduced efficiency in power generation when particles adhere to surfaces like solar panels have prompted research into innovative surface designs inspired by cicada wings. This study focuses on cost-effective cycloolefin polymer (COP) nanostructure fabrication to emulate self-cleaning properties. Utilizing anodized aluminium oxide (AAO) and thermal nanoimprint lithography (T-NIL), large-area nanopillar surfaces, even at a height of 200 nm, displayed excellent antifouling properties against PM 0.1. Evaluating static and dynamic wettability for COP nanopillar surfaces, the study demonstrated superhydrophobicity even with 200 nm-high pillars. The nanopillar structure-controlled particle flow prevents the entry of particles exceeding 100 nm in diameter into structural spacing. Furthermore, fouling and durability tests under varying natural conditions, containing rainy or windy simulations, showcased effective SiO₂ particle removal, demonstrated the mechanism of air/water self-cleaning on nanopillar surfaces, and illustrated the future method of material selection and nanomorphology design. In conclusion, this research provides insights into the fabrication of stable superhydrophobic surfaces on COP, demonstrating promising applications for cost-effective outdoor use, especially in self-cleaning photovoltaic panels, with enhanced self-cleaning efficiency and potential for large-scale implementation.