Heterogeneous structured surfaces for smart liquid manipulation

Functional surfaces with small-scale heterogeneous structures offer promising approaches for manipulating small volumes of liquids. In this talk, I will use the curvature-ratchet surface as a generic example to illustrate how the delicate balance of liquid–solid interfacial energy influences liquid behavior. We introduce a key dimensionless parameter derived from surface free energy and liquid surface tension to characterize the interfacial energy relationship, enabling a variety of liquid control modes such as directional, bidirectional, and reverse manipulation, as well as complex liquid transport patterns. Additionally, we will discuss how these techniques can be extended to develop advanced liquid manipulation platforms with potential applications in open microfluidics, biochemistry, and green energy solutions.