Oscillation and self-propulsion of Leidenfrost droplets enclosed in cylindrical cavities. Issue 38 (7th September 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Yi, Pyshar; Thurgood, Peter; Nguyen, Ngan; Abdelwahab, Haneen; Petersen, Phred; Gilliam, Christopher; Ghorbani, Kamran; Pirogova, Elena; Tang, Shi-Yang; Khoshmanesh, Khashayar
• Is Part Of: Soft matter. Volume 16:Issue 38(2020)
• Page Start: 8854
• Page End: 8860
• Publication Date: 2020-09-07
• Subjects: Soft condensed matter -- Periodicals; 530.413
• DOI: 10.1039/d0sm01153c
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1744-683X

Abstract

Abstract : We show the evolution of unique dynamic modes and the self-propulsion of Leidenfrost droplets when placed in a metallic disk with offset radial grooves. Abstract : Leidenfrost droplets can be considered as soft engines capable of directly transforming heat into mechanical energy. Despite remarkable advancements in understanding the propulsion of Leidenfrost droplets on asymmetric structures, the complex dynamics of droplets in enclosed structures is not fully understood. To address this fundamental gap, we investigated the dynamics of Leidenfrost droplets restricted by metal disks. The disk alters the accumulation and release of the vapour generated by the droplet, and substantially changes its dynamic characteristics. Our experiments reveal the formation of oscillating multi-lobed structures when restricting the droplet within a disk. In comparison, patterning offset radial grooves on the surface of the disk rectifies the vapour flow and facilitates the self-propulsion of the droplet along the edge of the disk. Our work offers opportunities for developing soft and short-living actuators, which can operate at high temperatures.