Intelligent manipulation of liquids through the bio-inspired structuring of materials

Fluid manipulation behavior is crucial for the survival of various living organisms and industrial applications. However, traditional techniques are no longer sufficient due to advancements in technology and increasing demands of modern life and industry. To enhance flexibility and practicality, scientists have explored the use of external conditions and stimuli to achieve intelligent control over liquid. Intelligent liquid manipulation strategies based on bio-inspired wettability structure surfaces appear to be an innovative and promising direction. This paper presents a systematic review of current research on intelligent manipulation of liquids using bionic wettability structure surfaces. The initial section of this paper outlines relevant theoretical basis of liquid wetting, transport, and droplet bouncing. Subsequently, the intelligent manipulation strategies of liquid on different bionic wettability structure surfaces under various external stimuli are reviewed. Furthermore, intelligent control of underwater oil droplets and bubbles is also discussed. Then, typical preparation techniques of bionic wettability structure surfaces are presented. Lastly, the limitations and prospects of intelligent liquid manipulation techniques for bionic wettability structure surfaces are discussed. The objective of this paper is to explore the progress of intelligent liquid manipulation on bionic wetting structure surfaces, and to provide guidance for designing effective intelligent liquid manipulation structures.