(78j) Condensation Dynamics on Phase Switching Liquids

Condensation phase change plays a decisive role in a number of natural and industrial activities. We have studied condensation on a class of commonly available materials that can undergo phase-transition due to condensation itself. Bestowed by the ability to switch phase, these materials, referred herein as Phase Switching Liquids encompass several functional attributes of both the liquid and solid phases which could hold the potential for overcoming many of the challenges faced by the traditional superhydrophobic or liquid infused surfaces. In this regard, we have performed in-depth experimental investigation of the water droplet interactions with phase-switching surfaces in the absence/presence of condensation to determine the relation between nanoscale transport phenomena (e.g. temperature distribution below/around droplets) and the resulting macroscale heat and mass transport properties during phase change. Specifically, we have studied the delayed condensation-frosting dynamics on highly subcooled Phase Switching Liquids as a function of their phase-transition material properties (e.g. solid-state surface structure, water miscibility, thermal properties), thermodynamic conditions (e.g. relative humidity, degree of subcooling) and interfacial hydrodynamics using conventional & advanced diagnostic tools to elucidate the fundamentals of condensation on the phase-switching surfaces.