Mechanically-Durable Antireflective Subwavelength Nanoholes on Glass Surfaces Using Lithography-Free Fabrication

Traditional multilayer antireflection (AR) surfaces are of significant importance for numerous applications, such as laser optics, camera lenses, and eyeglasses. Recently, technological advances in the fabrication of biomimetic AR surfaces capable of delivering broadband omnidirectional high transparency combined with self-cleaning properties have opened an alternative route toward realization of multifunctional surfaces which would be beneficial for touchscreen displays or solar harvesting devices. However, achieving the desired surface properties often requires sophisticated lithography fabrication methods consisting of multiple steps. In the present work, we show the design and implementation of mechanically robust AR surfaces fabricated by a lithography-free process using thermally dewetted silver as an etching mask. Both-sided nanohole (NH) surfaces exhibit transmittance above 99% in the visible or the near-infrared ranges combined with improved angular response at an angle of incidence of up to theta(i) = 60 degrees. Additionally, the NHs demonstrate excellent mechanical resilience against repeated abrasion with cheesecloth due to favorable redistribution of the shearing mechanical forces, making them a viable option for touchscreen display applications.