Scientists control surface tension to manipulate liquid metals (w/ Video)

Researchers from North Carolina State University have developed a technique for controlling the surface tension of liquid metals by applying very low voltages, opening the door to a new generation of reconfigurable electronic circuits, antennas and other technologies. The technique hinges on the fact that the oxide "skin" of the metal - which can be deposited or removed - acts as a surfactant, lowering the surface tension between the metal and the surrounding fluid.