Abstract: An apparatus and heat transfer system, the apparatus comprising: a substrate; a plurality of nucleation sites provided on the substrate; a nanostructured surface surrounding the nucleation sites arranged to enable coalescence induced droplet jumping; wherein both the plurality of nucleation sites and the nanostructured surface are hydrophobic.

Abstract: A method for coating heat transfer components to impart superhydrophobicity comprises conveying one or more heat transfer components to a cleaning station, where the one or more heat transfer components are cleaned with an organic solvent. After the cleaning, the one or more heat transfer components are conveyed to a nanostructuring station and immersed in hot water for surface oxidation and roughening. After the immersion in hot water, the one or more heat transfer components are conveyed to a functionalization station and exposed to a heated precursor vapor comprising a hydrophobic species. During the exposure, the hydrophobic species is deposited on roughened surfaces of the one or more heat transfer components, thereby forming a superhydrophobic coating. Prior to being conveyed to the cleaning station, the one or more heat transfer components may be attached to an automated conveyor system positioned to traverse the cleaning, nanostructuring, and functionalization stations.

Abstract: An apparatus and heat transfer system, the apparatus comprising: a substrate; a plurality of nucleation sites provided on the substrate; a nanostructured surface surrounding the nucleation sites arranged to enable coalescence induced droplet jumping; wherein both the plurality of nucleation sites and the nanostructured surface are hydrophobic.