Investigating the Molecular Design Mechanism Behind the Hydrophobicity of Biological Surface Nanostructures: Insights from Butterfly and Mosquito Systems (2404.11899v1)

Abstract: Wettability is a fundamental physicochemical property of solid surfaces, with unique wettability patterns playing pivotal roles across diverse domains. Inspired by nature's ingenious designs, bio-inspired materials have emerged as a frontier of scientific inquiry. They showcase remarkable hydrophobic properties observed in phenomena such as mosquitoes preventing fog condensation, and lotus leaves exhibiting self-cleaning attributes. This groundbreaking research delves into the hydrophobic characteristics of biomimetic surfaces using coarse-grained molecular simulation and the free energy barrier evaluation system. By analyzing the butterfly wings and mosquito eyes model, we aim to pioneer a comprehensive framework that factors in the influence of surface parameters on the free energy barrier. Through meticulous simulation and analysis, we strive to validate and enhance the reliability of the free energy barrier assessment method, deepening our understanding of hydrophobicity across diverse biomaterials and paving the way for optimizing their properties for a myriad of applications. During our investigation, we shed light on the elusive intermediate state, a departure from the typical Cassie or Wenzel state, enriching our theoretical framework for surfaces with distinctive properties. This research is a catalyst for developing biomimetic materials with superior hydrophobic characteristics and innovative fabrication processes, transcending academic boundaries and promising significant strides in environmental conservation, medicine, and beyond, offering hope for a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future.