Droplet-droplet approach over a liquid infused hydrophobic surface under electric field

Abstract

Significant prospects for progress in a range of scientific and technological fields arise from the interaction of sessile droplets on hydrophobic surfaces under the action of electric fields. The ideal circumstances for two sessile droplets to approach one another are examined in this study. To achieve this, we created hydrophobic surfaces on an acrylic surface using spray paint and then evaluated dielectric liquid films on top of these substrates to regulate droplet behavior. We used rectangular copper electrodes on the side walls of the surfaces to apply electric fields between 28 and 500 kV/m. Our findings revealed three distinct phases of droplet interaction: initial movement within a defined electric field range, directed approach toward one another, and a dispersion phase leading to droplet fragmentation. Results varied significantly based on the type of dielectric film and the droplet ratios employed. In conclusion, this study advances our understanding of droplet interactions on hydrophobic surfaces, which leads the way for more refined applications in microfluidics and related technologies. The knowledge gained may have a significant impact on areas like chemical synthesis, biomedical device development, and digital microfluidics.