hydrofili

Hydrofili is a term used in different contexts to describe an affinity for water. In chemistry and materials science, it refers to hydrophilicity, the property of a substance or surface to interact readily with water through hydrogen bonding or ionic interactions. In botany, hydrophily denotes pollination by water in aquatic plants, where pollen is released into a water medium and transported to the stigma.

The mechanism of hydrophilicity stems from polar or charged groups within a molecule, or from structured hydration shells that favor interaction with water. Hydrophilic surfaces exhibit high wettability, often indicated by low contact angles with water, and tend to have high surface energy and substantial water uptake. These properties influence solubility, dispersion, and interfacial behavior in mixtures and systems.

Applications of hydrophilicity are widespread. In materials science, hydrogels, contact lenses, wound dressings, and breathable coatings rely on hydrophilic interactions for compatibility and function. In industrial contexts, hydrophilicity affects detergency, oil–water separation, and chromatography. Surface treatments and polymer modifications are routinely employed to increase or tune wettability and biocompatibility.

Common hydrophilic materials include cellulose, polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylic acid, gelatin, and many proteins and carbohydrates. In biological systems, hydrophilicity influences protein folding, cell adhesion, and transport processes, shaping interactions with water-rich environments.

In botany, hydrophily is found in some aquatic or semi-aquatic species, where pollen is released into water and carried to the stigma. It can be obligate or facultative and is relatively rare compared with wind or animal pollination.