Fabrication of a Super-Hydrophobic Micro-Nanoporous Aluminum Surface by Anodic Oxidation

A novel and stable super-hydrophobic film was prepared by stearic acid (C18H36O2), which was chemically adsorbed onto the anodized aluminum surface. The maximum static water contact angle (WCA) of the super-hydrophobic surface was 157.5º ± 2.0º and the contact angle hysteresis was less than 3º. The superhydrophobic property is attributed to the micro-nanoporous surface morphology and stearic acid. The pore size on the surface of anodic aluminum oxide is an important factor for controlling the superhydrophobic adhesiveness. The superhydrophobic surface is a factor to reduce device-associated infection and can be used in metal packaging practice.