Mechanism of Stefan Flow in the Collection of Particles on Evaporating/Condensing Surfaces: A Review

Evaporation and condensation are important in the field of heat and mass transfer. Particle collection by an evaporating or condensing surface is an interesting phenomenon. The Stefan flow generated on the phase change surface has a significant effect on the movement of particles. The transport mechanism of Stefan flow in previous studies lacks a systematic review. This study introduces the Stefan flow mechanism in particle collection, and the different theoretical models of particle collection are systematically summarized. The differences between the theoretical calculation and the experimental results of the effect of the phoretic forces (thermophoresis and Stefan flow) in particle collection on evaporating/condensing surfaces are pointed out. The variations are discussed from the viewpoint of Stefan flow. This study also emphasizes that Stefan flow on the condensing surface may become an important mechanism to further improve the particle collection efficiency.

Automated summary

This study introduces the Stefan flow mechanism and different theoretical models in particle collection. It points out the differences between theoretical calculations and experimental results on the impact of phoretic forces on particle collection, discussing the variations from the perspective of Stefan flow. The study also emphasizes the potential importance of Stefan flow on condensing surfaces for improving particle collection efficiency.