Interaction between cavitation bubbles and plastrons on superhydrophobic surfaces

Area of Science:

• Fluid Dynamics
• Surface Science
• Materials Science

Background:

• Cavitation bubbles pose challenges in various fluid systems.
• Superhydrophobic surfaces offer unique liquid-gas interface properties.
• Plastrons on these surfaces can interact with cavitation dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate cavitation bubble interaction with plastrons on superhydrophobic surfaces.
• Characterize bubble collapse behaviors and resulting jet patterns.
• Establish design criteria for effective plastron functionality.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a low-voltage discharge device for cavitation generation.
• Employed high-speed photography to capture bubble dynamics.
• Analyzed bubble-plastron interactions and jet formation.

Main Results:

• Plastrons act as liquid-gas interfaces repelling cavitation bubbles.
• Bubble collapse direction is influenced by forces from plastron and wall.
• Seven distinct jet patterns were identified, with three showing weaker boundary impact.
• Design criteria (Vp>0.25Vmax, Hp>0.55Rmax, Dp>1.2Rmax) were established.
• Plastron pulsation varied with jet patterns.

Conclusions:

• Plastrons significantly alter cavitation bubble behavior and impact.
• Plastron morphology and interaction parameters are crucial for controlling bubble dynamics.
• Established design criteria can optimize superhydrophobic surfaces for cavitation mitigation.