Line tension at wetting: interface displacement model beyond the gradient-squared approximation

摘要: Abstract We study the transition zone or contact line between a thin film and bulk liquid, calculate tension τ, employing an interface displacement model equivalent to Derjaguin's de Gennes' approach. investigate behaviour of τ in limit that angle ϑ tends zero, approaching wetting phase transition. Previous results for prewetting, derived gradient-squared approximation model, remain valid when gradient is included all orders. The interesting singular at universal , due critical phenomena have recently been found underly first-order as well continuous transitions. Finally we critically review two contact-line instabilities associated with contact-angle hysteresis, propose alternative physical interpretation.