"Droplet Interaction Technologies" (DROPIT): Selected Results of the International Research Training Group GRK 2160

The International Research Training Group GRK 2160 (DROPIT), active since Oct. 2016, focuses on droplet interaction technologies, which have a large number of applications in a variety of technological processes. The main objective of DROPIT is to identify and to investigate the mechanisms through which small-scale interactions at the interface couple with and influence large scale features in the main flow. DROPIT is a joint initiative of the University of Stuttgart in Germany, the University of Bergamo and the University of Trento in Italy. The project consists of 17 subprojects, which are structured into three main research areas, involving researchers from a large number of different disciplines. The project consists of an extensive qualification program which aims at fostering the education of young scientists and providing them the knowledge and skills to conduct independent research. This paper provides an overview of the structure and the research activities within DROPIT as well as on the qualification program implemented. Selected research results are shown and discussed. The main purpose of this paper is to familiarize colleagues with this extensive research effort in the area of droplet interaction technologies and to exchange ideas and promote future collaboration with others in this field.