Lippmann's legacy : the evolution of electrowetting and its impact on wettability
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In this dissertation, we venture beyond the traditional frameworks of electrowetting to establish a systematized approach to understanding and manipulating fluid surfaces under the influence of electrical forces. Our primary objective is to bridge the gap between the empirical methodologies that have long dominated the field and the visionary theoretical underpinnings laid down by early pioneers like Lippmann. By rekindling these foundational theories and aligning them with contemporary advancements, we pave the way for electrowetting to evolve from a niche specialty into a robust scientific discipline and a cornerstone of technological innovation. We introduce the concept of "dynamic wettability," a holistic perspective that views the wettability of a surface as an adaptable trait, one that evolves in real-time with the shape and charge dynamics of a conductive liquid droplet. This paradigm shift, grounded in the careful reinterpretation of Lippmann's original equations, allows for a more nuanced understanding of electrowetting phenomena. Our methodology, which synthesizes classical electrocapillarity and modern computational simulations, illuminates the dynamic interplay between electrostatic and surface free energies, providing a comprehensive framework for analyzing electrowetting setups. The findings of this research are profound, revealing the inherent universality and invariance of electrowetting contact angle saturation across various configurations. This universal behavior, long observed but not fully understood, is captured through our approach with unprecedented clarity. By re-embracing Lippmann's theories within a modern context, we unlock new potentials for electrowetting technology, demonstrating its broad applicability and the capacity for predictive modeling in design and experimentation. The implications of this work are far-reaching. By establishing a more systematic method for characterizing and designing electrowetting systems, we set the stage for a future where electrowetting can mature into a refined technology with diverse applications. This dissertation not only serves as an academic treatise but also as a guidebook for future researchers and entrepreneurs. It aims to catalyze a paradigm shift in how electrowetting is understood, taught, and applied, fostering an environment where innovation is guided by a clear, scientifically grounded methodology.
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Ph. D.