Dropwise condensation theory revisited Part II. Droplet nucleation density and condensation heat flux

An improved dropwise condensation heat transfer model modified from previous models is proposed in this paper. The critical radius for onset of droplet condensation is determined in the preceding paper (Part I), leading to a more accurate determination of droplet nucleation density and the coalescence radius in this paper (Part II). Effects of subcooling, contact angle, thickness and thermal conductivity of the coating layer on droplet nucleation density, condensation heat flux, and critical condensation heat transfer rate for onset of droplet condensation are illustrated. The predicted droplet nucleation density and dropwise condensation heat flux are shown in excellent agreement with existing experimental data. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.