Self-cleaning surfaces: The importance of a single groove

An innovative algorithm exposes the energy pathways that cause super-repellent surfaces to stop working. 'Superhydrophobic' surfaces, such as anti-icing or self-cleaning windows, are remarkably effective at repelling water molecules. However, they may suddenly -- and dramatically -- lose their superhydrophobic features. Researchers have now identified a cause for the widespread 'wetting transition' by pinpointing how infiltration of a single microscopic groove can cause such an event.

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