Tapani A. Pakkanen
Papers
11
Total Citations
391
H-Index
9
About
Tapani A. Pakkanen is a leading figure in the design and fabrication of advanced polymer surfaces, with a particular focus on superhydrophobic and hierarchically structured materials. His research masterfully bridges the gap between fundamental surface science and practical, scalable manufacturing. Pakkanen’s major contributions lie in developing precise, controlled methods to create micro- and nanostructures on polyolefin surfaces, such as polypropylene. He pioneered the use of micro-working robots combined with anodization to build durable, wear-resistant superhydrophobic surfaces, a critical advancement for real-world applications where mechanical robustness is essential. His work on replacing traditional micro-nano hierarchies with more resilient micro-micro hierarchies has been highly influential, with his landmark 2007 paper on superhydrophobic polyolefin surfaces garnering over 130 citations. Beyond water repellency, Pakkanen has innovated in flexible bioelectrodes, using micropillar arrays to improve electrochemical performance, and in SERS substrates by embedding silver nanoparticles in protective polymer micropits. His ability to extend hierarchical structuring to curved, three-dimensional surfaces via injection molding demonstrates a commitment to industrial relevance, making his research a cornerstone for students and engineers working on self-cleaning materials, biosensors, and advanced coatings.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1Superhydrophobic Polyolefin Surfaces: Controlled Micro- and Nanostructures134 citations · 2007
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- 8Precise micropatterning of silver nanoparticles on plastic substrates14 citations · 2017
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