Ordering of the nanoscale step morphology as a mechanism for droplet self-propulsion.
We establish a new mechanism for self-propelled motion of droplets, in which ordering of the nanoscale step morphology by sublimation beneath the droplets themselves acts to drive them perpendicular and up the surface steps. The mechanism is demonstrated and explored for Ga droplets on GaP(111)B, using several experimental techniques allowing studies of the structure and dynamics from micrometers to the atomic scale. We argue that the simple assumptions underlying the propulsion mechanism make it relevant for a wide variety of materials systems.
Hilner
Emelie
E
Department of Physics, MAX-lab, Lund University, Box 118, 22100 Lund, Sweden.
Zakharov
Alexei A
AA
Schulte
Karina
K
Kratzer
Peter
P
Andersen
Jesper N
JN
Lundgren
Edvin
E
Mikkelsen
Anders
A
D005708:Gallium / Q000737:chemistry; D006358:Hot Temperature; D044085:Microfluidics; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D009038:Motion; D036103:Nanotechnology / Q000379:methods; D013499:Surface Properties
D005708:Gallium