Simple, large-scale patterning of hydrophobic ZnO nanorod arrays

ACS Appl Mater Interfaces. 2012 Aug;4(8):3910-5. doi: 10.1021/am3007142. Epub 2012 Jul 18.

Abstract

Here we describe a simple, versatile technique to produce large-scale arrays of highly ordered ZnO nanorods. Patterning of three distinct ZnO crystal morphologies is demonstrated through use of different ZnO seed layers. Array formation is accomplished through a simple variation on nanosphere lithography that imprints a thickness variation across a PMMA mask layer. The area of exposed seed layer is controlled through etching time in an oxygen plasma. Subsequent hydrothermal growth from the patterned seed layer produces high-quality ZnO crystals in uniform arrays. The high uniformity of the patterned array is shown to induce a high contact angle hydrophobic state even without the need for chemical modification of the ZnO surface. This technique provides a straightforward way to integrate the optical and electrical properties of high-quality ZnO nanorods with the tunable fluidic properties at the surface of well-ordered arrays.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biosensing Techniques / methods*
  • Crystallization
  • Electrochemistry / methods
  • Equipment Design
  • Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions
  • Materials Testing
  • Microfluidics
  • Nanotechnology / methods
  • Nanotubes / chemistry
  • Optics and Photonics / methods
  • Oxygen / chemistry
  • Polymethyl Methacrylate / chemistry
  • Surface Properties
  • Zinc Oxide / chemistry*

Substances

  • Polymethyl Methacrylate
  • Oxygen
  • Zinc Oxide