Abstract: A method of forming a self-cleaning film system includes depositing a perfluorocarbon siloxane polymer onto a substrate to form a first layer. The method includes removing a plurality of portions of the first layer to define a plurality of cavities in the first layer and form a plurality of projections that protrude from the substrate. The method includes depositing a photocatalytic material onto the plurality of projections and into the plurality of cavities to form a second layer comprising: a bonded portion disposed in the plurality of cavities and in contact with the substrate, and a non-bonded portion disposed on the plurality of projections and spaced apart from the substrate. The method also includes, after depositing the photocatalytic material, removing the non-bonded portion to thereby form the self-cleaning film system.

Abstract: In an example of a method for making an electrode active material, a sacrificial layer is formed on a nanomaterial. Carbon is coated on the sacrificial layer to form a carbon layer. Titanium dioxide is coated on the carbon layer to form a titanium dioxide layer. The sacrificial layer is removed to form a void between the nanomaterial and the carbon layer.

Abstract: In an example of a method for making a sulfur-based positive electrode active material, a carbon layer is formed on a sacrificial nanomaterial. The carbon layer is coated with titanium dioxide to form a titanium dioxide layer. The sacrificial nanomaterial is removed to form a hollow material including a hollow core surrounded by a carbon and titanium dioxide double shell. Sulfur is impregnated into the hollow core.

Abstract: A film system includes a substrate and a film disposed on the substrate. The film includes a monolayer formed from a fluorocarbon and a plurality of regions disposed within the monolayer such that each of the plurality of regions abuts and is surrounded by the fluorocarbon. Each of the plurality of regions includes a photocatalytic material. A method of forming a film system includes depositing a monolayer formed from a fluorocarbon onto a substrate. After depositing, the method includes ablating the monolayer to define a plurality of cavities therein, wherein each of the plurality of cavities is spaced apart from an adjacent one of the plurality of cavities along the monolayer. After ablating, the method includes embedding a photocatalytic material into each of the plurality of cavities to form a film on the substrate and thereby form the film system.