Controlled cavitation at nano/microparticle surfaces

Here we proposed a model that describes the nucleation of cavitation bubbles on nano/microparticle surfaces, which is of significance for the yet unsolved problem of particle-cavitation interaction. The model was verified through rational experimental design varying parameters including particle size, their shapes and additives. The surface morphology evolution of particles under high intensity ultrasonic irradiation in aqueous solution can be tailored by changing the nucleation energy barrier of cavitation bubbles on particle surfaces. Cavitation-induced breakage of particles under sonication has also been addressed, which predicts the critical effect of the initial size of solid particles in affecting ultrasound-driven intraparticle fracture. These results shed light on the effect of commonly used sonication treatments on nanostructured materials and sonochemical surface modification in particle science and technology.