A novel microstructure inspired from Nepenthes alata and lizard skin and its enhanced uni-directional liquid spreading property.

Abstract

With the discovery of the liquid spreading mechanism on the peristome of Nepenthes alata, many studies focusing on uni-directional liquid spreading microstructures have been carried out with an emphasis on structural improvement and the spreading mechanism. Although there are various kinds of microstructures that can accomplish small-scale liquid uni-directional transportation, liquid spreading has not been optimized on a slope because of the unwanted backward flow generated by fabrication defects; inspired by the microstructure of the peristome surface of Nepenthes and the topography of the lizard skin, in this study, we present an innovative, easily processed microstructure that possesses the property of intensified uni-directional liquid spreading even on an oblique substrate. This property is derived from a new, hybrid mechanism that can significantly enhance the uni-directional liquid transportation.