Mathematical Models Applied to Solid Surface Wettability

Abstract

In this work we have made a study about the Physics and Chemistry Surface, where can performed from their theoretical to experimental aspects. The purpose of this work is to analyze the effects of the surface modification of carbon nanotubes (NTCs), given their desire surface functionalization. It can be studied by its wettability behavior and contact angle (AC) analysis. The two mathematical models were used to obtain the entire characterization of this surfaces – Cassie-Baxter and Wenzel models. The application of these models are important in order to analyze the experimental data. It was noted that from the macroscopic point of view the wettability is linked to the behavior of the CA. NTCs as-grown showed superhyphobicity behavior, with a huge AC. Surface attack with oxygen plasma has transformed it into superhydrophilic, with a significant change from AC. Superhydrophobicity is due to surface roughness, while superhydrophilicity is due to a change in its energy. Through these effects of superhyphobicity and superhydrophilicity of the nanotubes it was possible to evaluate some characteristics for applications such as fuel cells and microfluidics devices.