Modelling of Droplet Deposition Shape on Fabric Surface using Spray Printing

A droplet-impacted fabric surface deposition process was established based on the two-phase volume of fluid (VOF) computing model. This study was important because implementation of drop-on-demand 3D printing used for forming flexible conductive lines on fabric depends on understanding the droplet deposition mechanism. The interaction of droplets and the fabric substrate, as well as the penetration process, were simulated. The distribution of pressure and velocity, and the influence of surface tension and viscosity, in the droplet deposition process were also studied. The simulation and confirmatory experimental results show that the internal pressure gradient in the liquid was the main reason for the droplet spreading, penetration, and bubble formation. These research results lay a theoretical foundation for droplet spray printing of conductive lines on fabric surfaces.