Method for Targeted Control of Droplet Condensation on a Substrate Surface by Means of Ion Implantation

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This patent discloses a method for precisely controlling dropwise condensation on the surface of a substrate by using ion implantation. By directing an ion beam at a specific angle onto the substrate surface, a nanoscale structure is created that encourages liquid to condense in the form of separate droplets instead of a film. The technique enables faster, targeted formation of surface structures that optimize the condensation process without impairing heat transfer.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Surface treatment of heat exchangers to enhance condensation efficiency
• Production of advanced cooling devices or condensers used in power plants and refrigeration systems
• Improvement of desalination units by facilitating faster and more efficient water condensation
• Chemical industry equipment where controlled condensation processes are required
• Coating and surface modification for materials used in energy systems
• Creation of anti-fogging or anti-wetting surfaces for optical devices or windows

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables precise and controllable structuring of surfaces at the nanoscale to promote dropwise condensation
• Improves efficiency and speed of condensation, resulting in better heat transfer and energy savings
• Avoids issues of thermal resistance associated with hydrophobic coatings
• Process can be applied to a variety of metals relevant to industrial applications
• Reduces costs compared to lotus-inspired micro-structuring or thick coatings
• Allows selective structuring of only parts of a surface as needed
• Provides stable, long-lasting surface properties suitable for large-scale, industrial use

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for selectively setting dropwise condensation on a surface (1) of a substrate (2) and to a substrate that is structured on its surface by this method. This involves directing an ion beam (3, 3') onto the surface (1) of the substrate (2) for the implantation of ions into the surface (1) and a resultant structuring of the surface (1). The ion beam (3, 3') impinges on the surface (1) at an angle that is inclined by between 30° and 80° with respect to a normal (4) to the surface. The surface (1) is structured by the ion beam (3, 3') in such a way that drops (7, 7', 7'') of a liquid precipitate on the structuring of the surface (1) during the dropwise condensation.