Abstract
We present experiments that show that the partial wetting of droplets capped by taut elastic films is highly tunable. Adjusting the tension allows the contact angle and droplet morphology to be controlled. By exploiting these elastic boundaries, droplets can be made elliptical, with an adjustable aspect ratio, and can even be transformed into a nearly square shape. This system can be used to create tunable liquid lenses and, moreover, presents a unique approach to liquid patterning.
- Received 26 July 2018
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.121.248004
© 2018 American Physical Society
Physics Subject Headings (PhySH)
Synopsis
Turning Round Drops Square
Published 13 December 2018
Researchers can change the shape of a liquid drop by placing it between two stretched elastic films, allowing the drop to be used as a tiny adjustable lens.
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