Bio-inspired membranes with well-defined channels

A new bio-inspired and green process based on the principle of the vapor condensation on cold surfaces has been selected for building up next generation membranes. Water droplets have been used like self-assembly building blocks for the creation of well-defined channels through polymeric matrixes. High order and regularity of these 3D patterns resemble those of challenging anodic and lithographed structures. The pore size has been modulated on the microscopic scale length by changing the density of the polymer solution. Membrane topography-surface property relationships have been found. The defined morphological and physicochemical features make these membranes promising interfaces for bio-technological and chemical engineering applications.