Preparation and fluid drag reduction properties of superhydrophobic paper-based films comprising carbon nanotubes and fluoropolymers

Abstract

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were successfully prepared using chemical vapor deposition method on nickel-coated silicon substrates. The CNTs were then modified to obtain functionalized ends. Afterward, acrylate polymers were successfully grafted on the surface of CNTs by atom transfer radical polymerization method. The synthesis process was optimized by studying the surface properties of the composite films. It revealed the existence of chemical bonding between CNTs and polymers. The introduction of CNTs into polymers could improve the water resistance of films. Micro/nano and papillary structures similar to that of lotus leaf were obtained when the polymer matrix was partly etched. The excellent fluid drag reduction performances of film surfaces were expected to be applied in microfluid devices and packaging field.