Abstract
In this study, we demonstrate an inexpensive and fast method of creating hybrid microstructures for enhancement of capillary wicking by using UV laser ablation. We have also experimentally observed that capillary wicking rates are greatly increased by laser-machining induced surface roughness in pin-fin microstructures, and in one case the amount of enhancement was as large as 116%. The capillary wicking enhancement is a strong function of the geometry of the largescale pin-fin microstructures as well as the surface roughness of the flat areas. This study will help lead to the better understanding of capillary wicking in hybrid structures that in turn can assist with more informed designing and optimization processes of evaporator wicks in vapor chambers.
