Recent advances in microfluidics by tuning wetting behaviors

Wettability and microfluidics are inextricably linked, and the wettability-based approach to microfluidics exhibits considerable potential. In addition to microfluidics, there has been a renewed interest among researchers in the study of wettability. The primary objective of microfluidics, which is employed in several domains including signal detection, cell cultivation, and materials synthesis, is to facilitate the regulated movement of minute droplets within narrow tubes of roughly 10 μm in width. Due to the limited understanding of fluid mechanics at the micron scale, microfluidics necessitates system modelling based on wettability design. This review begins with an assessment of bionic surfaces to provide a comprehensive overview of wettability and microfluidics. The analysis emphasizes clarity and logical structure, with a focus on objective, value-neutral language and precise word choice. Notable findings such as lotus leaf surfaces and traditional models of wettability are explored in detail, and attention is also paid to formal register, correct grammar and consistent formatting. The review examines the three primary applications of present wettability research: separating oil and water, collecting fog water, and transporting droplets. It also analyses the challenges that currently exist. Subsequently, the review introduces basic microfluidics concepts, with emphasis on laminar flow and droplet phenomena, illuminating the criticality of wettability in microfluidics. Expanding on this basis, the analysis introduces two techniques for establishing systems grounded in the wettability regime and investigates the bio-applications of microfluidics, evidencing its noteworthy potential despite its drawbacks. In conclusion, the analysis presents a comprehensive summary of the relationship between wettability and microfluidics, as well as the possible prospects for future advances. In conclusion, this review aims to contribute to the study of wettability and microfluidics by discussing the design, construction, and application of microfluidics within the context of their close relationship.