Bioinspired Robust Helical-Groove Spindle-Knot Microfibers for Large-Scale Water Collection
作者：Shaomin Wang, L. Zhu, D. Yu, X. Han, L. Zhong, Y. Hou, Yongmei Zheng*
關鍵字：Water collection
論文來源：期刊
發表時間：2023年
Helical structure is ubiquitous in nature with high-order configuration,
specific paths, large superficial areas, providing an approach to bioinspired
wettability control. Owing to its special hydrophilic rough surfaces and
periodic knot and joint structure, natural spider silk can catch tiny droplets in
fog and transport them directionally, sparking scientific interest in bioinspired
knotted microfibers to address the risk of water scarcity. To further enhance
the water collection ability, a bioinspired helical-groove-modified spindle-knot
(HSK) microfiber is continuously fabricated in this work by a simple coating
method combined with crack regulation. The formation and morphology can
be precisely manipulated by adjusting the drawing velocity and concentration
of the coating solution. Compared with smooth spindle-knot microfibers, HSK
exhibits greater performances of wetting speed, droplets growth rate, and
hanging ability, which can be attributed to the unique helical paths that bring
capillary force difference and offer extra three-phase contact line lengths for
water collection behavior. The maximum droplet volume is almost 2114 times
that of the microfiber knots, which is the highest compared with previous
reports. Moreover, HSK microfibers are endowed with repairable wettability,
long-term durability, excellent mechanical properties, and flexibility, showing
great potential in the realm of applications for large-scale water collection.
https://doi.org/10.1002/adfm.202305244
