An image sequence showing a water droplet trampolining on a superhydrophobic surface, with time advancing from left to right. (Image credit: T. M. Schutzius, G. Graeber, & D. Poulikakos)
Water droplets resting on water-repellent surfaces spring away spontaneously in a low-pressure environment, according to a new study . This finding could be used to help develop more advanced anti-icing systems for ships, offshore drilling rigs, and airplanes. The researchers found that as the water evaporated, a difference in pressure caused the drops to spontaneously bounce away from the water-repellent surface.
Original research paper published in Nature on November 4, 2015.
An accompanying commentary article was published in Nature on November 4, 2015.
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