Molecular dynamics simulations of droplet coalescence and impact dynamics on the modified surfaces: A review

The effective control of droplet coalescence and impact behaviors on solid surfaces plays a crucial role in various fields, such as material science, environmental science, energy, biomedicine, agriculture, and aerospace. This review aims to summarize recent advancements in the understanding of coalescence and impact dynamics of droplets under different conditions using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. We highlight diverse approaches that enable the achievement of controllable coalescence and impact behaviors through the manipulation of surface properties, droplet properties, and coalescence and impact conditions. These approaches encompass adjustments in surface structures, surface morphology, and surface wettability, as well as the manipulation of droplet size, viscosity, and components, and the control of initial shape setting and impact velocity. Furthermore, we also introduce the dynamics associated with the coexistence of these two behaviors. Importantly, this review is expected to provide valuable insights for both industrial and technological applications, particularly in the areas of self-cleaning surfaces and microfluidics.