Interactions at interfaces across scales : from adsorption to adhesion

Abstract

The interface between two phases is a prime site for exchanges to occur: from heat or mass transfer to the adsorption of contaminants. This work explores a range of interactions at interfaces across scales, from the adsorption of molecules on substrates to the adhesion of ice on solids. Surface engineering is used to tailor the physicochemical properties of surfaces (microstructure, roughness, chemical functionalization, and charge) to achieve the desired behavior. First, macroscopic features are introduced on superhydrophobic substrates to restrict transport phenomena between an impacting droplet and a solid surface. Then, the adsorption of organic contaminants from oil is investigated as a function of surface functionalization and a hybrid liquid-solid substrate is developed to mitigate deposition. At the macroscale, the ice-solid interface is examined and two separate approaches that combine adhesion reduction with a robust surface design to make them practical for use in harsh environments are demonstrated. Finally, the directed adsorption of proteins is used to build in situ templates that enhance the nucleation rate of crystals for applications in protein-based drug manufacturing.