Particle deposition dynamics in evaporating droplets using lattice Boltzmann and magnetic particle simulation

Abstract

Herein, a simulation model is proposed that combines the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) and a magnetic particle model to observe particle ring patterns in evaporating sessile droplets, controlling them using a magnetic field. Brownian dynamics and van der Waals force models are applied to the nanoparticles. The interactions between the magnetic particles are simulated using the magnetic particle model, which is validated using previous experimental particle distribution results. The particle deposition patterns are compared according to the substrate wetting conditions. The distribution exhibited a clear coffee-ring pattern as the pinning time of the contact line increased. In the case of a non-pinned droplet, the thermal Marangoni flow was maintained, and the adhesion of the particles was delayed by the vortex. A thick, uniform ring pattern was formed when a magnetic field was applied to the particles. The particle bundles formed by the magnetic field were resistant to flow. To verify this result, the average particle velocity was measured. Consequently, particle transfer was classified into three stages. In Stage I, capillary force dominates, Marangoni flow develops in Stage II, and particle adhesion occurs in Stage III. With an increase in the magnetic strength, the velocity change exhibited a decrease across all stages.