Wrinkled interfaces: Taking advantage of surface instabilities to pattern polymer surfaces

Among the approaches to obtain patterned interfaces by means of surface instabilities the formation of wrinkles is the most explored method and will be the center of this review. The fabrication approaches employed to induce wrinkle formation and the possibilities to fine tune the amplitude and period of the wrinkles, the functionality and their final morphology are thoroughly described. Finally, an overview about the main applications in which buckled interfaces have been already employed or may have an impact in the near future is provided. Their use as templates, as flexible electronics, as supports with controlled wettability and/or adhesion or for biorelated applications are few of the fields in which the unique characteristics of wrinkled interfaces play distinguishing role.