Using neodymium ring magnets (0.5–0.65 T), the experiments on the magnetic field (MF) effects on water evaporation rate and surface tension were performed at room temperature (22–24 °C). In accordance with the literature data, the enhanced evaporation rates were observed in the experiments conducted in a period of several days or weeks. However, the evaporated amounts of water (up to 440 mg over 150 min) in particular experiments differed. The evaporated amounts depended partially on which pole of the ring magnet was directed up. The relatively strong MF (0.65 T) caused a slight decrease in surface tension (−2.11 mN/m) which lasted longer than 60 min and the memory effect vanished slowly. The surface tension data reduced by the MF action are reported in the literature, although contrary results can be also found. The observed effects can be explained based on literature data of molecular simulations and the suggestion that MF affects the hydrogen bonds of intra- and inter-clusters of water molecules, possibly even causing breakage some of them. The Lorentz force influence is also considered. These mechanisms are discussed in the paper.

Advancing and receding contact angles of water, formamide and diiodomethane were measured on 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPPC) layers deposited on three different solid supports—glass, mica and poly(methyl methacrylate). Up to five statistical monolayers were deposited on the surfaces by spreading DPPC solution. It was found that even on five statistical DPPC monolayers, the hysteresis of a given liquid depends on the kind of solid support. Also on the same solid support the contact angle hysteresis is different for each probe liquid used. The AFM images show that the heights of roughness of the DPPC films cannot be the primary cause of the observed hysteresis because the heights are too small to cause the observed hystereses. It is believed that the hysteresis is due to the liquid film present right behind the three-phase solid surface/liquid drop/gas (vapour) contact line and the presence of Derjaguin pressure. The value of contact angle hysteresis depends on both the solid surface and liquid properties as well as on intermolecular interactions between them.

Superhydrophobicity results from nano- and/or micro- protrusions present on a hydrophobic surface. Such surfaces are commonly characterized by water advancing contact angle, which amounts to at lea...