Apparatus and method for retaining gas in microfeatures on submerged surfaces

Abstract

A microstructured surface having microfeatures formed thereon and defining spaces between the microfeatures includes at least one electrode of a pair of electrodes in the space, wherein the electrodes of the pair are electrically connected to each other. At least one electrode located in the space is configured to generate gas between the microfeatures when the electrolyte solution penetrates the microfeatures. Importantly, the electrodes are not connected to any external power source. Because the microstructured surface is self-powered when replenishing gas lost in the submerged state, no additional supply is required to provide energy or regulate replenishment for implementation and use.

Description

[0001] Cross References to Related Applications [0002] This application claims priority to US Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 026,474, filed July 18, 2014. Claim priority under 35 U.S.C. §119. The aforementioned patent applications are incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth herein. technical field [0003] The field of the invention relates generally to methods and apparatus for using microstructured hydrophobic surfaces, including superhydrophobic surfaces, and more particularly to methods of retaining gas on microstructured hydrophobic surfaces when the microstructured hydrophobic surfaces are submerged in a liquid and equipment. Background technique [0004] By today's convention, a superhydrophobic (SHPo) surface is defined as a solid surface on which water in air forms a contact angle greater than 150 degrees. So far, such high contact angles have only been found on structured hydrophobic surfaces, usually measured in micrometers, although not...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Thus, chemical reaction based gas generating surfaces of the type disclosed in the '195 publication have a short lifetime

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