Exploiting Microscale Roughness on Hierarchical Superhydrophobic Copper Surfaces for Enhanced Dropwise Condensation

Abstract

Hierarchical micro/nanostructured super­hydrophobic surfaces are developed to control the nucleation, growth, and departure of condensate droplets on copper substrates. The microscale roughness elements on the hierarchical surface yield a 40% higher droplet growth rate and a 300% increase in cumulative droplet departure volume as compared to superhydrophobic surfaces with nanostructures alone.