Tests Even Liquids with High Melting Points, High Viscosities, and Similar Densities
This device that uses electrostatic oscillations can measure interfacial tension between liquids in extreme environments with accuracy. Understanding interfacial tension is important for production in many industries, such as the chemical, cosmetic, and automobile industries. Available technologies can be used to determine interfacial tension only under certain conditions. Previously, samples with high melting points, high viscosities, or samples with similar densities could not be tested. Researchers at the University of Florida have developed a system and device that will overcome these obstacles and allow companies to better compare the interfacial tension of their product to a theoretical value. This will allow products to be adjusted for optimal fit for a prescribed use, such as improved semiconductor crystals that could result in better devices.
Application
System and device for more accurate measure of interfacial tension even in extreme environments
Advantages
- Produces interfacial tension measurements for samples with high melting points, allowing use in extreme environments
- Capable of determining interfacial tension when densities of fluids are very similar or when fluids have high viscosities, broadening the number of fluids that can be used
- Easily calibrated, overcoming defects in other techniques
Technology
This system and device is capable of characterizing or measuring interfacial tension between layers of liquids through the use of electrostatic oscillation. A dish with multiple liquids can be positioned between electrodes; a constant voltage superimposed with an alternating voltage is then applied across the electrodes. The amplitude of the alternating voltage can be increased to determine the amplitude at which the interface between the liquids begins to deflect or Faraday waves are created. This amplitude can characterize the interfacial tension between the liquids and be compared to the theoretical value.
Brochure
