Laser-textured superhydrophobic copper surfaces for enhanced heat transfer: a comprehensive review
摘要
This review presents a detailed and structured analysis of recent progress in enhancing heat transfer performance through laser-textured superhydrophobic (SH) copper (Cu) surfaces, with a primary focus on facilitating dropwise condensation (DWC). Among the various surface modification techniques, femtosecond and nanosecond laser texturing have emerged as highly promising approaches for fabricating robust SH surfaces, primarily by inducing hierarchical micro/nanostructures on Cu substrates. The review comprehensively explores the fundamental wetting mechanisms underpinning super hydrophobicity, such as the Cassie–Baxter and Wenzel models, and critically examines how surface wettability, morphological features, and surface energy govern condensation dynamics and thermal transport efficiency. It further consolidates recent advancements in fabrication methodologies, surface characterization techniques, and performance evaluation metrics tailored to SH Cu surfaces. In addition, the integration of these engineered surfaces into practical heat exchanger systems is discussed, highlighting current limitations associated with scalability, long-term durability, surface degradation, and adaptability under realistic operating environments. By synthesizing current knowledge and technical challenges, this review offers valuable insights to support the rational design and future development of high-efficiency, application-oriented thermal systems leveraging laser-engineered surface functionalities for advanced phase-change heat transfer applications.