Fabrication of composite wettability surface and slippery surface via liquid-assisted laser ablation

Nowadays, the water shortage has emerged as a critical global issue, driving the need for innovative solutions in water collection and management. Inspired by the special wettability surface of Nepenthes, a method for preparing a slippery surface and composite superhydrophobic–hydrophilic surface based on zirconia is presented. The fabrication process of slippery surface mainly comprises three steps: liquid-assisted laser ablation, fluorosilane modification, and infusion of lubricating liquid. The composite wetting surface is achieved by fabricating hydrophilic patterns on a superhydrophobic surface. Experiment results revealed that surfaces with the multi-scale microstructure exhibits the optimal wettability performance. Utilizing these special wettability surfaces, we developed and integrated a water collection platform. In particular, theoretical analysis and experimental investigation were conducted on the droplet transport mechanism of the platform. Furthermore, the stability of the slippery surface on platform was assessed, revealing its potential for long-term use in passive water collection applications. Therefore, this work enhances the understanding of the fundamental research and provides valuable strategy and insight for design and preparation of sustainable and efficient water collection systems.