Ante versus post-functionalization to control surface structures with superhydrophobic and superoleophobic properties

Abstract

Here, we report the first use of the Staudinger–Vilarrasa reaction with perfluorinated surface modification. Based on a 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) monomer bearing azido groups, we develop ante and post deposition strategies in order to prepare functionalized surfaces. The Staudinger–Vilarrasa reaction allows the reduction of the azido groups into amine functions and the reaction with carboxylic acids leads to amide bounds. Here, the surfaces are investigated for their morphologies and surface properties depending on the side chain length and the modification strategy. This work shows that various wettability properties from hydrophobic to superhydrophobic or oleophilic to superoleophobic can be obtained depending on both the modification strategy and nature of the side chain.