Our current topic is how the interfacial molecules and nanostructures stabilize the droplet non-sticking. One work is the stabilization of the droplet with particulate gel powders[2]. The gel has a non-wetting nanostructure, and the embedded viscous liquid layer dissipates the external force. Thus, the gel-stabilized droplet is non-sticking and mechanically robust. Another work is that molecular level tuning of the droplet interface results in the emergence of the bifurcated wetting states that are non-sticking or sticking.[3] This work accesses the fundamental understanding of the molecular effect on the droplet adhesion property.

We study the structure and dynamics of interfaces based on fundamental physical laws. A major topic is wettability modulation via engineering nanostructured surfaces and interfaces. Wetting is ubiquitous in nature and industry. Thus, understanding the wetting dynamics leads to the unachieved design of biomimetic materials, wet processing, and functional interfaces. We mainly focus on the design of liquid-repellent materials and their applications to droplet transportation technology. [1]