Drag reduction ability of slippery liquid-infused surfaces: A review

Devising effective methods to reduce drag forces is of great interest as these methods could prevent the wastage of fuel and decrease carbon emission and the global warming rate. Since the invention of Liquid-Infused Surfaces (LISs) in 2011, numerous investigations have been conducted to study their capability in various applications. Due to recirculation or drawing of the penetrated liquid within the surface structure, these surfaces acquire a slippiness property. The conducted investigations showed that these slippery surfaces have great potential for reducing drag forces, whether in a laminar or turbulent flow. In the present work, we first briefly elucidate common drag reduction methods, effective factors, and types of liquid-infused surfaces and their applications. In addition, we address issues such as lubricant evaporation and depletion that threaten the performance of the LISs. Then, we comprehensively focus on the drag reduction ability of these surfaces and state the criteria required to achieve stable drag reduction. Finally, future outlooks and research topics requiring further investigations are discussed. • Drag reduction studies on liquid-infused surfaces (LISs) are reviewed. • Lubricant recirculation within surface asperities induces notable slip velocites. • The infused lubricant camouflages the beneath substrate from corrosive agents. • The trapped liquid deceives the substrate tactile sensors of the fouling organisms. • Anti-fouling, anti-rust, and slippery features make the LIS a potent drag reducer.