Jain S., Li L., Breedveld V., Hess D.W., Barnett C., Davis M., Singh S., Pillai S.
Alabama State University, US
Keywords: bacterial attachment, laser induced break down spectroscopy, superhydrophobicity
The surface topography and chemistry of cellulose-based paper, was controlled by a two-step plasma (glow discharge) treatment. Selective plasma etching of the amorphous regions of cellulose followed by plasma deposition of a thin (100 nm) fluorocarbon film resulted in superhydrophobic (water contact angle (CA) >160) behavior. Surface topography changes allowed variation of the wetting characteristics due to alteration of the adhesive force of water droplets to the paper surfaces. This led to the formation of two modified papers that were studied for their bacterial attachment properties: one type had low hysteresis (LH) or low droplet adhesion, while the other had high hysteresis (HH) or higher adhesion. Attachment results were compared with those of untreated paper. Reduction of bacterial count after dropping suspensions of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium on HH and LH papers was observed. Laser induced break down spectroscopy (LIBS) using a single laser pulse from a Nd:YAG laser operating at 266 nm showed atomic emission intensity that was 2-3 times higher from the LH paper as compared to HH paper. The modified paper may have applications in a vast array of products including microwavable food packages and self-cleaning cartons.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Nanotechnology 2013: Advanced Materials, CNTs, Particles, Films and Composites (Volume 1)
Published: May 12, 2013
Pages: 190 - 193
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topic: Materials Characterization & Imaging
ISBN: 978-1-4822-0581-7