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Liquid transport generated by a flashing field-induced wettability ratchet

We develop and analyze a model for ratchet-driven macroscopic transport of a continuous phase. The transport relies on a field-induced dewetting-spreading cycle of a liquid film with a free surface based on a switchable, spatially asymmetric, periodic interaction of the liquid-gas interface and the substrate. The concept is exemplified using an evolution equation for a dielectric liquid film under an inhomogeneous voltage. We analyse the influence of the various phases of the ratchet cycle on the transport properties. Conditions for maximal transport and the efficiency of transport under load are discussed.