Janus Cu/Ti mesh with asymmetric surface wettability fabricated by diffusion bonding

The fabrication of surfaces with varying wettability is crucial for developing Janus materials. In this study, a Janus Cu/Ti mesh with asymmetric wetting surfaces is fabricated using diffusion bonding. The Ti and Cu meshes are bonded through vacuum hot-pressing, forming a two-layer compositing, and the CuTi intermetallic compound is found at the interface. High-density TiO 2 nanostructures are synthesized on the Ti wire via hydrothermal treatment in NaOH. Subsequent immersion in a stearic acid solution, renders the Cu mesh hydrophobic, while the Ti mesh retains its hydrophilic properties, resulting in a Janus Cu/Ti mesh with asymmetric hydrophobic/superhydrophobic behavior. The unidirectional transport properties of this Janus mesh, including water penetration and bubble/oil manipulation, are systematically studied. Additionally, a superhydrophobic/hydrophilic Janus mesh is achieved by synthesizing CuO nanosheets on Cu mesh and applying surface modifications. This approach broadens the technological framework for fabricating Janus materials and enhances the potential applications of diffusion bonding, highlighting its versatile prospects.