On January 8, the China Manned Space Agency released the China Space Station Scientific Research and Application Progress Report (2025) (the Report). In this report,the research led by Chen Zhenqian and Xu Bo from the School of Energy and Environment, SEU, titled “Liquid Film Evolution and Heat Transfer Laws onaSingle Pin-Fin Surfaceduring Space Condensation”, was selected as one of the top three advances in the field of Microgravity Fluids and Thermophysics. The related research has contributed to the publication of three SCI papers and the granting of two invention patents.

The study focuses on key scientific and technical issues in efficient space thermal management requiring urgent breakthroughs in the aerospace field. Leveraging the long-term stable microgravity environment of the space station and relying on the “Two-Phase System Experiment Cabinet of Mengtian Space Lab Module,” the team conducted film-wise condensation experiments using HFE-7100 working fluid on the single pin-fin surface. The research successfully captured the entire evolutionary of liquid film formation and spreading on the single pin-fin surface in a long-duration microgravity environment, obtaining the relevant heat transferlaws. It was discovered that, in microgravity, the liquid film accumulates at the bottom of the pin-fin and gradually spreads outward, causing a significant decrease in heat transfer performance. The study also explored how an increased degree of surface temperature non-uniformity strengthens thermal capillary convection and liquid film fluctuations. This research has enriched the theory regarding the stability of condensate liquid films in microgravity condensation and proposed efficient methods to enhance space condensation heat transfer.

Looking ahead, this project is expected to extend space station microgravity condensation heat transfer research to support thermal management systems in multiple areas, including space-based computing and lunar bases, providing strong support for the rapid and efficient development of China's space thermal control technology.

The Report was first released in 2024, and the Report (2025) focuses on key areas such as space life sciences and human research, microgravity physical sciences, and new space technologies and applications. It systematically reviews the progress of China Space Station's scientific research and application, selecting 33 representative achievements, which will play a crucial role in promoting the flourishing development of space science, technology, and applications.

Resource: School of Energy and Environment, SEU

Translated by: Melody Zhang

Proofread by: Gao Min

Edited by: Li Xinchang