Capillary filling and drop dynamics on structured surfaces

Condensed Matter lunchtime seminar

Capillary filling and drop dynamics on structured surfaces

  • Event time: 1:00pm
  • Event date: 8th February 2010
  • Speaker: Bortolo Mognetti (University of Edinburgh)
  • Location: Room 2511,

Event details

We investigate the capillary filling of three dimensional micro-channels with surfaces patterned by posts of square cross section. We show that pinning on the edges of the posts suppresses, and can halt, capillary filling. We stress the importance of the channel walls in controlling whether filling can occur. We then investigate the dynamics of micron-scale drops pushed across a hydrophobic or superhydrophobic surface. The velocity profile across the drop varies from quadratic to linear with increasing height, indicating a crossover from a sliding to a rolling motion. We study how rolling and sliding are affected by fluid viscosities, surface tension and interface mobility.

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.