Dynamics of fakir liquids: from slip to Splash

Superhydrophobic surfaces, associated with the so-called Lotus effect, have attracted numerous studies in the past few years, originally motivated by their unique non-wetting properties and resulting applications (water-repellency, self-cleaning surfaces, etc.). It was soon recognized, however, that beyond their static superhydrophobic (SH) properties, such surfaces led to quite unique dynamic properties. In the present paper, we will review recent works studying the liquid flow behavior in the vicinity of SH surfaces. Addressing separately the case of microfluidics and macroscale hydrodynamics, we consider the possibilities and limitations of these materials as super-lubricating surfaces and discuss to which extents they may be used to fabricate "smart" surfaces capable of controlling flow properties. (c) Koninklijke Brill NV, Leiden, 2008