Direct Three‐Dimensional Imaging of the Buried Interfaces between Water and Superhydrophobic Surfaces

Walking on air: Confocal laser scanning microscopy can be used to provide distinct 3D images of air at buried superhydrophobic interfaces (see picture, bright area). Two hydrophobic states, Wenzel and Cassie states, have been quantitatively visualized and distinctly identified. The 10 μm thick air cushion drastically decreases water adhesion, thus making water droplets roll off the surface and readily remove surface contaminants (self‐cleaning).