One-Step Deposition Process to Obtain Nanostructured Superhydrophobic Thin Films by Galvanic Exchange Reactions

Superhydrophobic thin films of silver were fabricated on copper substrates by galvanic ion exchange reactions in a one-step process by immersing copper substrates in silver nitrate solution containing fluoroalkylsilane in different quantities. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses confirmed the formation of silver films on copper substrates and the fractal-like morphological features of the silver films were confirmed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The contact angle of water on these surfaces is found to be greater than 165°, demonstrating water repellency with water drops rolling off the surfaces. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) depth profile confirms the presence of fluorine in the silver films.