Researchers at the University of Liège have developed a technique for sculpting the surface of water by exploiting natural deformations called "menisci". These shapes appear particularly at the contact between water, air and the walls of a container.
To create realistic surface features on the liquid, scientists used 3D-printed structures made up of tiny, pointed pillars. Each element locally alters the water's surface tension, allowing them to create miniature landscapes and complex shapes.
A promising discovery for industry and the environment
Beyond the spectacular nature of the experiment, this breakthrough could open up new technological possibilities. Researchers explain that a deformed water surface makes it possible to guide and move very small floating objects without direct contact or significant energy expenditure.
This technique could be used, in particular, to manipulate microparticles or microplastics in water pollution cleanup operations. It could also find applications in the precision industry, for assembling tiny components that are difficult to move with traditional tools.
Scientists now hope to deepen their research in order to explore other possible uses of this unprecedented mastery of the physical properties of the water surface.
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