Droplet Spreading on Heterogeneous Surfaces using a Three-Dimensional Lattice Boltzmann Model

Abstract

We use a three-dimensional lattice Boltzmann model to investigate the spreading of mesoscale droplets on homogeneous and heterogeneous surfaces. On a homogeneous substrate the base radius of the droplet grows with time as $t^{0.28}$ for a range of viscosities and surface tensions. The time evolutions collapse onto a single curve as a function of a dimensionless time. On a surface comprising of alternate hydrophobic and hydrophilic stripes the wetting velocity is anisotropic and the equilibrium shape of the droplet reflects the wetting properties of the underlying substrate.