Process of texturation of glass surface

A new process of texturation of the surface of oxide based glass, vitro ceramic or ceramic, has been developed in a French laboratory of the University of Rennes 1. The method consists in an engraving step followed by a chemical treatment of the engraved surface. Each mark left behind on the surface may evolve, after the chemical step, into a nano or a micro cavity suitable for different kinds of applications e.g. lotus effect and catalysis.

Networks of individual marks, a scratch-drawn pattern, as well as an embossing of the surface are possible in order to obtain the desired patterning of the surface. After chemical treatment, the final cavity is hemi spherically shaped (for punctual marks); moreover the pile up formed around the residual print during the engraving process disappears. After reaction the edges of the so formed cavities are smooth and without any defects.

This technique is suitable for an industrial production, the final size and shape of the cavity or drawn pattern being easily controlled by the duration and conditions of the chemical step.