Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 21, 2026
06:15
Wet Chemistry and Peptide Immobilization on Polytetrafluoroethylene for Improved Cell-adhesion
Published on: August 15, 2016
Complete prewetting
P Yatsyshin1, A O Parry2, S Kalliadasis1
1Department of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK.
Summary
We investigated interfacial transitions in confined systems, revealing complex phase diagrams influenced by intermolecular forces and fluctuations. These findings are crucial for understanding fluid behavior in various geometries.
Area of Science:
- Physical Chemistry
- Surface Science
- Thermodynamics
Background:
- Continuous interfacial transitions, analogous to 2D complete wetting, are observed.
- These transitions are linked to first-order prewetting lines.
- Such phenomena occur in various confining geometries like steps, patterned walls, grooves, and wedges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To study continuous interfacial transitions in confined systems.
- To investigate the influence of intermolecular force range and interfacial fluctuations.
- To explore the competition between wetting, filling, and condensation phenomena.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing microscopic classical density functional theory (DFT).
- Modeling systems with realistic Lennard-Jones fluid-fluid and fluid-substrate potentials.
- Computing mean-field fluid density profiles, adsorption isotherms, and phase diagrams.
Main Results:
- Identified rich phase diagrams even for simple geometries.
- Demonstrated sensitivity of transitions to force range and fluctuations.
- Computed detailed fluid behavior including density profiles and isotherms.
Conclusions:
- Continuous interfacial transitions and prewetting lines create complex phase behavior in confined systems.
- Interfacial fluctuations and intermolecular forces significantly impact these transitions.
- DFT provides a robust framework for predicting fluid behavior in diverse geometries.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Preparation of Samples for Electron Microscopy
To be visualized by an electron microscope, either transmission or scanning, biological samples need to be fixed (stabilized) so the electron beam does not destroy them and dried thoroughly (desiccated/dehydrated) so the vacuum does not affect them. Fixation needs to be done as quickly as possible because the sample properties will start changing as soon as it is removed from its natural environment. For example, in a tissue sample, the oxygen levels begin decreasing, causing an altered...
01:19Handwashing II: Pre-procedure and Initial Procedure Steps
The pre-procedure steps of handwashing include removing jewelry and rolling up sleeves. However, many organizations allow staff to wear wedding rings.
The hand washing procedure itself includes the following steps. First, cover cuts, if any, on hands with a waterproof dressing. Cuts and abrasions can become contaminated with bacteria hindering the ability to clean the area thoroughly. In addition, repeated hand washing can worsen an injury. The nails must be short and clean, without nail paint...
The hand washing procedure itself includes the following steps. First, cover cuts, if any, on hands with a waterproof dressing. Cuts and abrasions can become contaminated with bacteria hindering the ability to clean the area thoroughly. In addition, repeated hand washing can worsen an injury. The nails must be short and clean, without nail paint...
01:15Handwashing III: During the Procedure and Post-Procedure Steps
To wash hands properly, follow these steps:
00:52Washing, Drying, and Ignition of Precipitates
After filtration, the precipitate is washed to remove coprecipitated impurities and any remaining mother liquor. Colloidal precipitates, such as silver chloride, are washed with an electrolyte (such as dilute nitric acid) to prevent the peptization of the precipitate. In the case of slightly soluble precipitates, the wash solution contains a common ion to reduce solubility. Lead sulfate, which is slightly soluble in water, is washed with dilute sulfuric acid. Similarly, wash solutions may be...
01:26Curing Methods
Concrete members with a small surface-to-volume ratio are cured by oiling and moistening the forms before casting the concrete member. These forms can be left in place for a prolonged period to prevent moisture loss, and can be wetted if made of a material suitable for wetting. If the forms are removed early, the concrete member is moistened and covered with polythene sheets to maintain moisture. For large horizontal concrete surfaces exposed to dry weather, a temporary covering is suspended...