Topology optimization of robust superhydrophobic surfaces

Abstract

In this paper we apply topology optimization to micro-structured superhydrophobic surfaces for the first time. It has been experimentally observed that a droplet suspended on a brush of micrometric posts shows a high static contact angle and low roll-off angle. To keep the fluid from penetrating the space between the posts, we search for an optimal post cross section, that minimizes the vertical displacement of the liquid-air interface at the base of the drop when a pressure difference is applied. Topology optimisation proves effective in this framework, showing that posts with a branching cross-section are optimal, which is consistent with several biologic strategies to achieve superhydrophobicity. Through a filtering technique, we can also control the characteristic length scale of the optimal design, thus obtaining feasible geometries