Coalescence-Induced Droplet Jumping

Abstract

When two or more droplets coalesce on a superhydrophobic surface, the merged droplet can jump spontaneously from the surface without requiring any external energy. This phenomenon is defined as coalescence-induced droplet jumping and has received significant attention due to its potential applications in a variety of self-cleaning, anti-icing, antifrosting, and condensation heat-transfer enhancement uses. This article reviews the research and applications of coalescence-induced droplet jumping behavior in recent years, including the influence of droplet parameters on coalescence-induced droplet jumping, such as the droplet size, number, and initial velocity, to name a few. The main structure types and influence mechanism of the superhydrophobic substrates for coalescence-induced droplet jumping are described, and the potential application areas of coalescence-induced droplet jumping are summarized and forecasted.