Electrowetting-Induced Dewetting Transitions on Superhydrophobic Surfaces
Date of this Version
9-6-2011Citation
Langmuir, 2011, 27 (17), pp 10342–10346
Abstract
We develop and demonstrate the use of electrowetting to achieve the dewetting (Wenzel-to-Cassie transition) of superhydrophobic surfaces. We effect this transition by means of an opposing flat plate and a three-electrode system; the liquid droplet is completely pulled out of its wetted Wenzel state upon the application of a suitable voltage. We also experimentally quantify the dissipative forces preventing the dewetting transition. The energy associated with these nonconservative forces is comparable to the interfacial energies.
Discipline(s)
Nanoscience and Nanotechnology