Accelerated microrockets with a biomimetic hydrophobic surface

Abstract

In order to increase the velocity and propulsion efficiency, an accelerated microrocket with a biomimetic lotus-leaf-like surface is proposed through an electrodeposition technique along with a self-assembly technique. The microrocket is propelled by the thrust of hydrogen bubbles generated from a redox reaction in a strong acidic solution. A low-surface-energy (LSE) layer along with rough structures is constructed at the outer surface of the microrocket to reduce the drag force resulting from the environmental fluid. Physical insights on the drag force reduction and the corresponding acceleration are identified. The decrease of drag reduction is achieved. A comparison of the average velocity of the microrockets with and without a LSE hydrophobic layer is performed. As we found, the average velocity of the microrocket is increased after being self-assembled with a biomimetic hydrophobic surface.