Nanostructured, superhydrophobic, superoleophobic, self-cleaning, antimicrobial and antireflective surfaces fabricated by atmospheric pressure plasma for protection of sensitive archeological objects

The protection of sensitive archeological objects (paper, wood) from damage due to natural reasons attracts much scientific interest. The idea presented in the current proposal is the use of nanotechnology as potential solution to the above problem. More specifically, the nanostructuring of polymer surfaces using plasma processing has allowed the fabrication of ‘smart’ surfaces that exhibit attractive properties such as superhydrophobicity, superoleophobicity, self-cleaning and anti-microbial potential. These properties are capable of protecting a surface from physical damage due to moisture, fatty oils and bacterial adhesion. The innovation concerning the proposed technique lies in the utilization of atmospheric pressure plasma instead of using conventional low pressure plasma systems which demand costly vacuum equipment. The final goal of this study is the development of simple, portable, easy to handle, cost-effective and environmental-friendly technique for application in the nanotexturing of polymer surfaces and the effective protection and preservation of sensitive archeological objects.