Mansi Kothari

Silica or glass particles are incorporated into a poly(dimethylsiloxane) matrix (PDMS) for a variety of applications. The special feature of these systems is that the PDMS adsorbs onto the surface of the dispersed particles, thereby making them more hydrophobic over time.

Article Hydrophobization of Glass Surface by Adsorption of Poly(dime...

A simple method of modification is o dip the cover slips into a sol'n of polydietylsiloxane fluid with a viscosity of 350 or greater. This has issues in some cases because it is simply adsorbed on the surface and can desert. Most commercial hydrophobic surfaces are prepared by silane treatment. In general borosilicate glass gives better results than soda-lime glass. The reference Hydrophobicity, Hydrophilicity and Silane Surface Modification gives a variety of techniques. The simplest method is to use hexamethyldisilazane and dip the glass slides for 20-30 minutes at ~40-60°C or alternatively expose two vapor in a dessicator overnight