Temperature-dependence of the static contact angle: A transition state theory approach

The temperature dependence of the static contact angle could a priori be predicted by using surface tension partitioning. An original model based on transition state theory is also introduced. This considers thermocapillary fluctuations droplet near triple line and self-affine pinning this against solid substrate modeled with pseudo-periodic distribution adsorption sites. was studied for representative range liquids different polarities wide array substrates temperatures ranging from 25 to 240 °C. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) used quantify roughness substrates. Whereas partitioning failed bring consistent results above room temperature, proved very useful, thereby opening way yield predictive values variations. introduction topological dimension in equations yields unified that covers normal wetting (perfectly bonded smooth surfaces) but onset Cassie-Baxter Wenzel states real surfaces. Moreover, encompasses complete wetting.