The influence of the geometry on adsorption isotherms: From complete wetting to capillary condensation

Condensed Matter lunchtime seminar

The influence of the geometry on adsorption isotherms: From complete wetting to capillary condensation

  • Event time: 1:00pm
  • Event date: 22nd January 2001
  • Speaker: Carlos Rascon (University of Edinburgh)
  • Location: Room 2511,

Event details

The shape and chemical composition of solid surfaces can now be controlled at a mesoscopic scale. Exposing such structured substrates to a gas that is close to coexistence with its liquid phase can produce quite distinct adsorption characteristics compared to those of planar systems, which may be important for technologies such as super-repellent surfaces or micro- fluidics. In the talk, we present a simple theoretical model which shows that varying the shape of the substrate can exert a profound influence on the adsorption isotherms of liquids. The model smoothly connects wetting and capillary condensation through a number of examples of fluid interfacial phenomena, and opens the possibility of tailoring the adsorption properties of solid substrates by sculpting their surface shape.

About Condensed Matter lunchtime seminars

This is a weekly series of informal talks given primarily by members of the institute of condensed matter and complex systems, but is also open to members of other groups and external visitors. The aim of the series is to promote discussion and learning of various topics at a level suitable to the broad background of the group. Everyone is welcome to attend..

Find out more about Condensed Matter lunchtime seminars.