Non-wetted

The term 'non-wetted' describes a surface, material, or substance that does not become covered or permeated by a liquid. It signifies a lack of adherence or absorption between the liquid and the solid. The behavior is often due to surface tension, material properties that repel liquids (hydrophobicity or oleophobicity), or the absence of an adhesive interaction. The degree to which a surface is non-wetted can be quantified by contact angle measurements, where a high contact angle typically indicates a non-wetted surface. This property is crucial in various applications, from protective coatings to microfluidic devices.

Non-wetted meaning with examples

• The Teflon-coated pan is a prime example of a non-wetted surface. Water beads up and rolls off instead of spreading, preventing food from sticking. This characteristic makes it ideal for easy cleaning and cooking with minimal oil. The non-wetting property is achieved through Teflon's low surface energy, which repels the water molecules. Consequently, the food slides effortlessly across the surface.
• In inkjet printing, non-wetted ink nozzles are crucial for accurate droplet ejection. If the ink wetted the nozzle surface, it would spread uncontrollably and disrupt the printing process. Instead, the nozzle material is designed to be non-wetted by the ink, ensuring clean and precise droplet formation. The lack of wetting prevents the ink from creeping and clogging, ultimately enhancing the print quality.
• Researchers studying fog harvesting might examine non-wetted mesh materials. A non-wetted mesh, unlike a standard cloth, allows water droplets to pass without adhering or accumulating. This characteristic is advantageous when trying to gather clean water efficiently. Surface modifications often play a key role, providing the desired properties for the non-wetted material to shed moisture.
• Certain specialized fabrics used in rain gear are non-wetted, keeping the wearer dry. The outer layer repels water, preventing it from penetrating the fabric and reaching the skin. The non-wetting property of these garments ensures that water beads on the surface and rolls away. As a result, the user remains protected even in challenging weather conditions.