Biomimetic urchin-like surface based on poly (lactic acid) membrane for robust anti-wetting and anti-bacteria properties

Abstract

Abstract Anti-fouling and anti-bacteria are important virtues to help reduce membrane contamination and prolong membrane lifetime. Herein, we report a robust superhydrophobic poly (lactic acid) membrane with biomimetic urchin-like hierarchical surface structure which shows excellent anti-wetting character without fluorine components involved. Isopropanol, an incompatible solvent for poly (lactic acid), was introduced into the casting solution to tune the crystal behavior of polymer phase and thus the urchin-like microstructure was finally evolved during the phase inversion. The as-prepared membrane surface showed self-cleaning character and better superhydrophobic stability. It also exhibited high resistance to protein and Escherichia coli adhesion. This work inspires us a new strategy to fabricate anti-bacteria membrane based on surface texture design, instead of introduction of anti-bacteria agents.