Particle based superhydrophobic surfaces: Lab models-to-field sample behaviour
Lead Research Organisation:
Swansea University
Department Name: School of the Environment and Society
Abstract
Abstracts are not currently available in GtR for all funded research. This is normally because the abstract was not required at the time of proposal submission, but may be because it included sensitive information such as personal details.
Organisations
People |
ORCID iD |
| Stefan Doerr (Principal Investigator) |
Publications
Ahn S
(2013)
Effects of hydrophobicity on splash erosion of model soil particles by a single water drop impact
in Earth Surface Processes and Landforms
Atherton S
(2016)
Drop impact behaviour on alternately hydrophobic and hydrophilic layered bead packs
in Chemical Engineering Research and Design
Hamlett C
(2013)
Transitions of water-drop impact behaviour on hydrophobic and hydrophilic particles
in European Journal of Soil Science
Hamlett CA
(2011)
Effect of particle size on droplet infiltration into hydrophobic porous media as a model of water repellent soil.
in Environmental science & technology
| Description | Key findings from this grant have reinforced the understanding that micro-topography of surfaces is a key factor affecting their wettability and behavior when in contact with water. We focused particularly on loose granular surfaces and found that hydrophobic particles are more likely to be displaced by water drop impacts than wettable ones. This has implications, for example, for the irrigation of water repellent soils, particularly if plants are grown in ridges. |
| Exploitation Route | The problem of enhanced erosion of irrigated water repellent soils could be reduced by reducing the drop size or height of irrigation water or the very targeted use of surfactants. The research also improves understanding of erosion processes including the after effects of wild-fires, which leave some types of soil hydrophobic, and use of grey water in irrigation. The research contributes to understanding liquid penetration into filters and granular systems. It could therefore be used in a wide variety of situations which involve capillary effects including filters and gravel beds. |
| Sectors | Agriculture, Food and Drink,Construction,Environment,Leisure Activities, including Sports, Recreation and Tourism,Manufacturing, including Industrial Biotechology,Other |
| URL | http://www.naturesraincoats.com/ |
| Description | The findings have been mainly academic, but have also influenced understanding on soil slope stability after wild fires. Some influenced industry through water repellent textiles. |
| First Year Of Impact | 2009 |
| Sector | Agriculture, Food and Drink,Environment,Manufacturing, including Industrial Biotechology |
| Impact Types | Economic |
| Description | 3D printed surfaces and templates |
| Amount | £3,040 (GBP) |
| Organisation | Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) |
| Sector | Public |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 10/2013 |
| End | 07/2014 |
| Description | 2014 Conference - World Congress on Soil Science (Jeju city, South Korea) |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Postgraduate students |
| Results and Impact | Research Poster - "The role of particle shape and texture in amplifying hydrophobic behaviour of the soil-water interface", Ahn et al, 8th June 2014 |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2014 |
| URL | http://www.20wcss.org/ |
| Description | Soapbox Science 2015 Swansea |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Soapbox Science is a novel public outreach platform for promoting women scientists and the science they do. The events transform public areas into an arena for public learning and scientific debate; they follow the format of London Hyde Park's Speaker's Corner, which is historically an arena for public debate. Soapbox Science wants to make sure that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy, learn from, heckle, question, probe, interact with and be inspired by some of our leading scientists. No middle man, no powerpoint slide, no amphitheater - just remarkable women in science who are there to amaze you with their latest discoveries, and to answer the science questions you have been burning to ask. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2015 |
| URL | http://soapboxscience.org/?page_id=1618 |