Droplet physics I Fluid dynamics | Wetting & adhesion | Soft Matter
I am interested in all aspects of droplet physics: how droplets are formed and how droplets interact with surfaces.
An understanding of droplet physics has many important applications, such as the ability to make better raincoat and anti-fouling coatings to repel oil and blood. There is also a growing recognition that disease transmissions are dictated by how respiratory droplets move in air.
More generally, I am fascinated by fundamental interfacial and fluid mechanics phenomena. Why do raindrops wick quickly into our shirt, but remain as hemispherical droplets on a raincoat?
Fluid mechanics is not only mathematically arresting, but is also singular in its visual beauty and aesthetic appeal. See, for example, here and here.
More recently, I have become interested in how we can harvest water from the air. See the Youtube video here.
Recently, our work was awarded the APS Gallery of Fluid Motion Award 2023.