Nonlithographic Fabrication of Nanostructured Micropatterns via Breath Figures and Solution Growth

Micropatterning techniques independent of high-cost facilities are highly appreciated in bioanalysis and optoelectronics. Here we report a novel nonlithographic method based on self-assembled honeycomb films with through pores for micropatterning of zinc oxide nanowires (ZnO NWs). The ordered films were prepared via the breath figure method and used as templates for the solution growth of ZnO NWs. The resultant ZnO NW micropatterns were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry, X-ray diffraction, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, and photoluminescence spectrometry. Room-temperature photoluminescence spectra indicate that the micropatterned ZnO NWs show greatly enhanced near-band-edge emission and have potential as high-efficiency blue or near-UV light emitters. This facile and versatile approach is further demonstrated by templating biomimetic hydroxyapatite and silver nanoparticles on polydopamine-coated substrates. This work provides an alternative route to fabricating micropatterned functional surfaces at low cost and high efficiency.