Abstract
Patterned surfaces of hydrophobic and hydrophilic materials are considered to sustain dropwise condensation, providing the benefits of both materials and creating a surface with a low energy barrier for nucleation and capable of sustaining dropwise condensation. Surface heights, nodule sizes, and flow rates are evaluated on square-patterned surfaces to maximize mass collection. A thermal model is used to assess surface performance and includes an equivalent thermal resistance for diffusion. Flow rates of 15, 25, 50, and 100 m/s with nodule sizes between 0.1 mm to 3.6 mm are evaluated. Surface heights of 0.25, 0.5, 1, and 2 m are also assessed. For flow rates greater than 50 m/s, turbulent flow optimum nodule size is between 0.2 mm and 0.6 mm. Surfaces greater than 1 m in height at flow rates less than 50 m/s maximize mass with nodule sizes of 1.4 mm and 2 mm.
Enhanced dropwise condensation on heterogeneously hybrid patterned surfaces
