Alkanol-laden water droplet coalescence: A molecular dynamics study

Droplet coalescence is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon rooted in intermolecular interactions and fluid dynamics. This scientific process involves the merging of individual liquid droplets, a pivotal aspect in various scientific domains. The equilibration of single droplets laden with diverse alkanols is meticulously studied, unravelling intricate density and orientation profiles of alkanol molecules across the droplet interface. By employing advanced computational techniques, the study aims to provide insights into the intermolecular interactions and structural arrangements that govern the equilibration of alkanol-laden droplets. This phase of the investigation serves as a foundational understanding for the subsequent exploration of coalescence phenomena. The examination encompasses the study of coalescence kinetics, droplet merging dynamics, and the factors influencing the stability of formed bridges between droplets. Notably, the coalescence of droplets laden with hexanol-laden water droplets is highlighted as an exception, where steric repulsion dominates, leading to a distinctive coalescence behavior. The manipulation of DC and AC electric field strength allows for the exploration of electrostatic forces and dipole interactions, shedding light on the field-induced alterations in droplet coalescence dynamics. The findings contribute valuable insights into the role of external forces in manipulating coalescence behavior. Moreover, the investigation extends to the coalescence dynamics on hydrophobic surfaces.