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Influence of Surface Wettability on Bubble Formation and Motion
Yakang Xia1, Xuan Gao2, Ri Li1
1School of Engineering, The University of British Columbia, 1137 Alumni Avenue, Kelowna, British Columbia V1V 1V7, Canada.
Langmuir : the ACS Journal of Surfaces and Colloids
|December 1, 2021
Summary
Surface wettability significantly impacts bubble dynamics and heat transfer. Superhydrophilic and superhydrophobic surfaces, and biphilic surfaces, were studied to understand bubble behavior for enhanced boiling heat transfer.
Area of Science:
- Heat Transfer
- Fluid Dynamics
- Surface Science
Background:
- Bubble dynamics are crucial for efficient boiling heat transfer.
- Surface wettability profoundly influences bubble formation, growth, and detachment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To experimentally investigate the effects of superhydrophilicity (SHI) and superhydrophobicity (SHO) on bubble dynamics.
- To analyze bubble behavior on homogeneous SHI/SHO surfaces and novel biphilic surfaces.
- To provide insights for optimizing biphilic surface design for enhanced boiling heat transfer.
Main Methods:
- Air bubbles were introduced via surface through-holes to mimic vapor bubbles.
- Experiments were conducted on homogeneous SHI and SHO surfaces.
- Biphilic surfaces with distinct SHI and SHO regions were fabricated and tested.
- Pool boiling tests were performed on biphilic surfaces to observe vapor bubble behavior.
Main Results:
- Surface wettability significantly altered bubble size and departure frequency.
- A notable wettability contrast on biphilic surfaces directed bubble spreading onto the SHO areas.
- Observed vapor bubble behavior during nucleate boiling mirrored air bubble dynamics, confirming surface effects.
Conclusions:
- Surface wettability is a key factor governing air and vapor bubble dynamics in boiling.
- Biphilic surfaces demonstrate significant potential for manipulating bubble behavior.
- Findings offer valuable guidance for designing advanced surfaces to improve boiling heat transfer efficiency.
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