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Clustering and Self‐Recovery of Slanted Hydrogel Micropillars
Author(s) -
Lee Hyemin,
Kim JunHyun,
Wu Gaoxiang,
Lee HaeMin,
Kim Jaekyoung,
Kwon Dokyeong,
Yang Shu,
Kim ChangKoo,
Yoon Hyunsik
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
advanced materials interfaces
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.671
H-Index - 65
ISSN - 2196-7350
DOI - 10.1002/admi.201801142
Subject(s) - materials science , cluster analysis , shape change , nanotechnology , capillary action , transparency (behavior) , polymer , composite material , modulus , evaporation , self healing hydrogels , adhesion , elastic modulus , computer science , polymer chemistry , physics , computer security , evolutionary biology , machine learning , biology , thermodynamics
Slanted high‐aspect‐ratio polymer pillars are studied for their unique properties such as unidirectional spreading of liquid, directional adhesions, or alignment of cells, where the pillars are in constant contact with water or in a humid environment. These pillars, however, tend to cluster upon water evaporation due to the capillary force and lowered modulus of the pillars. Here, spontaneous recovery of clustered slanted hydrogel pillars to their original shape is presented by exploiting the modulus change of hydrogel materials during water evaporation. The clustering and recovery of the slanted hydrogel micropillars are monitored in situ by optical microscopy and environmental scanning electron microscopy. To elucidate sequential clustering and recovery mechanism, the adhesion force between the pillars and the restoring force is compared. Finally, the dynamic change of optical transparency is exploited as the result of switching between clustering and recovery of the slanted micropillars for display. The study of the deformation and recovery of slanted hydrogel pillars will offer insights into geometrical and material designs in water‐based applications.