Abstract:
A “Leidenfrost ratchet” is a device which facilitates a newly-discovered phenomenon,
where drops of liquid accelerate across a heated substrate. The system has been
qualitatively studied and a vapor flow model has been suggested to account for this
observed behavior. This paper provides a study of general behavior, considerations
needed to apply and test a vapor flow model for the ratchet system, and submits
the model to an experimental trial. The results show the quantitative validity of a
vapor flow model, while exposing subtle qualitative inconsistencies for the behavior of
water and ethanol droplets. Content of the study can be used as a starting point for
more detailed analysis of the system, possibly leading to novel scientific and industrial
applications.