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GUO Shuai, QIN Yechao, WANG Xin, XU Bo, CHEN Zhenqian. Review of Progress in Condensation and Heat Transfer Research in Microgravity (in Chinese). Chinese Journal of Space Science, 2026, 46(2): 1-14 doi: 10.11728/cjss2026.02.2025-0028
Citation: GUO Shuai, QIN Yechao, WANG Xin, XU Bo, CHEN Zhenqian. Review of Progress in Condensation and Heat Transfer Research in Microgravity (in Chinese). Chinese Journal of Space Science, 2026, 46(2): 1-14 doi: 10.11728/cjss2026.02.2025-0028
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Review of Progress in Condensation and Heat Transfer Research in Microgravity

doi: 10.11728/cjss2026.02.2025-0028 cstr: 32142.14.cjss.2025-0028

  • School of Energy and Environment, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189

  • Received Date: 2025-02-25
  • Rev Recd Date: 2025-05-22
    • Available Online: 2025-05-26
    Abstract
  • This review systematically summarizes recent advances in filmwise and dropwise condensation under microgravity, elucidating two-phase heat transfer mechanisms and gravitational influence patterns. For condensing heat transfer in tubes, gravity-independent criterion numbers (Bond number, Froude number, etc.) are used to determine whether gravity affects heat transfer, and the effect of gravity can be attenuated by increasing the mass flow rate of the vapor and reducing the tube diameter. In microgravity environments, dropwise condensation can be achieved through vapor flow acceleration combined with functional surfaces and air-blowing techniques for condensate removal. Current experimental studies on microgravity condensation remain limited due to challenges in obtaining sustained microgravity conditions. The paper emphasizes the necessity of conducting long-term condensation experiments utilizing orbital platforms like the China Space Station and International Space Station to address data reproducibility issues, investigate gravity-dependent mechanisms, and provide theoretical foundations for space two-phase thermal management systems.

     

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