Universal description of wetting on multiscale surfaces using integral geometry

Abstract: Hypothesis Emerging energy-related technologies deal with multiscale hierarchical structures, intricate surface morphology, non-axisymmetric interfaces, and complex contact lines where wetting is difficult to quantify with classical methods. We hypothesis that a universal description of wetting on multiscale surfaces can be developed by using integral geometry coupled to thermodynamic laws. The proposed approach separates the different hierarchy levels of physical description from the thermodynamic description, allowing for a universal description of wetting on multiscale surfaces. Theory and Simulations The theoretical framework is presented followed by application to limiting cases of various wetting states. The wetting states include those considered in the Wenzel, Cassie-Baxter and wicking state models. The wetting behaviour of multiscale surfaces is then explored by conducting direct simulations of a fluid droplet on a structurally rough surface and a chemically heterogeneous surface. Findings The underlying origin of the classical wetting models is shown to be rooted within the proposed theoretical framework. In addition, integral geometry provides a topological-based wetting metric that is not contingent on any type of wetting state. Being of geometrical origin the wetting metric is applicable to describe any type of wetting phenomena on complex surfaces. The proposed framework is applicable to any complex fluid topology and multiscale surface.