Issue 7, 2013

Topology optimization of robust superhydrophobic surfaces

Abstract

In this paper we apply topology optimization to micro-structured superhydrophobic surfaces for the first time. It has been experimentally observed that a droplet suspended on a brush of micrometric posts shows a high static contact angle and low roll-off angle. To keep the fluid from penetrating the space between the posts, we search for an optimal post cross-section that minimizes the vertical displacement of the liquid–air interface at the base of the drop when a pressure difference is applied. Topology optimisation proves effective in this framework, showing that posts with a branching cross-section are optimal, which is consistent with several biologic strategies to achieve superhydrophobicity. Through a filtering technique, we can also control the characteristic length scale of the optimal design, thus obtaining geometries feasible via standard lithography.

Graphical abstract: Topology optimization of robust superhydrophobic surfaces

Article information

Article type
Paper
Submitted
25 Sep 2012
Accepted
06 Dec 2012
First published
07 Jan 2013

Soft Matter, 2013,9, 2234-2238

Topology optimization of robust superhydrophobic surfaces

A. Cavalli, P. Bøggild and F. Okkels, Soft Matter, 2013, 9, 2234 DOI: 10.1039/C2SM27214H

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