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New liquid-infused surfaces based on wrinkled Teflon

Summary

Investigation of the new families of slippery nanostructured surfaces with reduced hydrodynamic drag.

Supervisor

Professor Chiara Neto.

Research location

School of Chemistry

Program type

PHD

Synopsis

Liquid repellency is important in many technological applications, such as self-cleaning surfaces and microfluidic devices. The spreading of liquids on a surface can be enhanced by a nanoscale chemical and topographical modification, which leads to an increase in the contact angle of a water drop, and by infusing surfaces with incompatible liquids. We develop new approaches for the fabrication of nanostructured surfaces, and we investigate their potential applications. In this project we will expand on our recent discovery of polymer wrinkles, which produce robust and scalable superhydrophobic coatings. For a video illustrating the principle visit http://www.abc.net.au/catalyst/stories/3257884.htm

Additional information

The project primarily involves performing experiments using a wide range of surface characterisation techniques such as optical and atomic force microscopy (AFM), contact angle goniometry, ellipsometry, and grazing angle FTIR. The modification of solid surfaces using advanced surface structuring techniques will be performed both in the lab and through external collaborations. Interested students should source their own scholarship, as detailed on the University’s website.

HDR Inherent Requirements

In addition to the academic requirements set out in the Science Postgraduate Handbook, you may be required to satisfy a number of inherent requirements to complete this degree. Example of inherent requirement may include:

- Confidential disclosure and registration of a disability that may hinder your performance in your degree;
- Confidential disclosure of a pre-existing or current medical condition that may hinder your performance in your degree (e.g. heart disease, pace-maker, significant immune suppression, diabetes, vertigo, etc.);
- Ability to perform independently and/or with minimal supervision;
- Ability to undertake certain physical tasks (e.g. heavy lifting);
- Ability to undertake observatory, sensory and communication tasks;
- Ability to spend time at remote sites (e.g. One Tree Island, Narrabri and Camden);
- Ability to work in confined spaces or at heights;
- Ability to operate heavy machinery (e.g. farming equipment);
- Hold or acquire an Australian driver’s licence;
- Hold a current scuba diving license;
- Hold a current Working with Children Check;
- Meet initial and ongoing immunisation requirements (e.g. Q-Fever, Vaccinia virus, Hepatitis, etc.)

You must consult with your nominated supervisor regarding any identified inherent requirements before completing your application.

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Opportunity ID

The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is 2068

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