Hanging droplets from liquid interfaces

Abstract

The impact of a heavier droplet falling into a deep pool of lighter liquid is investigated using three-dimensional numerical simulations. We demonstrate that the heavier droplets can hang from the surface of a lighter liquid using surface tension. The impact phenomenon and the evolution of the heavier droplet as a function of its size and release height are explored. A theoretical model is also formulated to understand the role of different forms of energy associated with the hanging droplet. We further solve the force balance equations for the hanging droplets analytically, and demonstrate that the results obtained from our simulations match very well the analytical solution. This research offers opportunities in many areas, including drug and gene delivery, encapsulation of biomolecules, microfluidics, soft robots, and remediation of oil spills.