Abstract: Provided in one embodiment is a dynamically tunable structure including an elastic layer, and a plurality of ferromagnetic micropillars disposed over the elastic layer. The elastic layer may have an elasticity that is greater than an elasticity of the micropillars.

Abstract: Condensation can be an important process in both emerging and traditional power generation and water desalination technologies. Superhydrophobic nanostructures can promise enhanced condensation heat transfer by reducing the characteristic size of departing droplets via a surface-tension-driven mechanism. A superhydrophobic surface can include a heterogeneous surface.

Abstract: A uniform external field can enhance condensation on a superhydrophobic surface. Jumping droplets on superhydrophobic surfaces accumulate a positive charge which promises the manipulation and control of jumping behavior using external electric fields.

Abstract: Evaporative heat transfer system. The system includes a substrate and a plurality of substantially parallel, spaced-apart ridges extending from the substrate forming vertical liquid manifolds therebetween. A nanoporous membrane is supported on the ridges and a pump delivers a dielectric fluid across the ridges. The fluid is drawn through the liquid manifolds via capillarity provided by the nanoporous membrane and evaporates to dissipate heat flux through the substrate. A preferred dielectric fluid is pentane. It is preferred that membrane porosity vary across the membrane to tailor thermal resistances to limit temperature rises.

Abstract: Monolithically integrated heat pump. The heat pump includes as adsorbent/absorbent condenser forming a hot terminal integrated with a phase change heat exchanger forming a cold terminal. The adsorbent/absorbent condenser and the phase change heat exchanger are integrated into a single pressure vessel.

Abstract: Heat exchanger. The heat exchanger includes a thermal contact plate defining a cavity in fluid communication with a first pipe and a plurality of stationary elements substantially perpendicular to the first pipe each defining a cavity wherein each cavity is in fluid communication with the first pipe and at least one cavity includes a wick. A plurality of movable elements are provided wherein the movable elements and the stationary elements are substantially parallel, alternatingly arranged and a portion of the movable elements overlaps a portion of the stationary elements. A working fluid is provided in the first pipe and cavities or stationary elements and thermal contact plate.

Abstract: Condensation can be an important process in both emerging and traditional power generation and water desalination technologies. Superhydrophobic nanostructures can promise enhanced condensation heat transfer by reducing the characteristic size of departing droplets via a surface-tension-driven mechanism. A superhydrophobic surface can include a heterogeneous surface.

Abstract: An adsorption system can be used as part of a climate control system in a vehicle or in any other space requiring heating or cooling.

Abstract: Surfaces having a hierarchical structure—having features of both microscale and nanoscale dimensions—can exhibit superhydrophobic properties and advantageous condensation and heat transfer properties. The hierarchical surfaces can be fabricated using biological nanostructures, such as viruses as a self-assembled nanoscale template.

Abstract: Heat exchangers and related methods, e.g., methods of reducing heat from a load, are disclosed. In some embodiments, a device includes a stationary element defining a cavity, a movable element, and a first heat pipe in fluid communication with the cavity defined by the stationary element.