Summary
Bridge structures and piers are subjected to severe environmental conditions, such as surges and icing, which can significantly impact their durability and performance. In the present work, we use a surface with a modified wall contact angle named "hybrid wettability coatings," which combines both hydrophilic and superhydrophobic properties. The results are compared with those on superhydrophobic (contact angle of 160°), hydrophobic (contact angle of 80°), and superhydrophilic (contact angle of 0°) surfaces. The results show that a hybrid surface significantly decreases the frequency of vortex shedding, thereby postponing the resonance phenomenon. Furthermore, the interaction between superhydrophobicity and hydrophilicity in the hybrid surface, based on changes in surface tension force, can alter the effects of ice adhesion. Therefore, hybrid wettability coatings can be used as a new surface for enhanced pier durability as well as anti-icing applications.
