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Accurate Determination of the Equilibrium Surface Tension Values with Area Perturbation Tests
Published on: August 30, 2019
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New procedure to measure simultaneously the surface tension and contact angle
S Champmartin1, A Ambari1, J Y Le Pommelec1
1Arts et Métiers, 2 Blvd. du Ronceray, Angers Cedex 01 49035, France.
The Review of Scientific Instruments
|June 3, 2016
Summary
This study introduces a novel method to measure liquid surface tension and static contact angle using a sphere. The technique relies on measuring meniscus height and vertical force, simplifying previous approaches.
Area of Science:
- Physics
- Materials Science
- Physical Chemistry
Background:
- Traditional methods for measuring surface tension and contact angle often require prior knowledge of one parameter or sphere displacement.
- Existing techniques may be limited by the size of the sphere relative to the capillary length.
- Accurate meniscus height calculation typically necessitates complex numerical solutions of the Laplace equation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a new procedure for simultaneous measurement of static contact angle and surface tension.
- To overcome limitations of existing methods by not requiring prior knowledge of parameters or sphere displacement.
- To provide a simplified yet accurate model for meniscus height on a sphere.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing a spherical geometry for liquid interaction.
- Measuring two key physical quantities: meniscus height and equilibrium vertical force.
- Developing a simplified solution to the Young-Laplace equation adapted for spherical geometry, based on Ferguson's work for cylinders.
- Comparing the simplified model with numerical solutions of the complete Young-Laplace equation.
Main Results:
- The proposed method allows simultaneous measurement of static contact angle and surface tension without prior parameter knowledge.
- A simplified model for meniscus height on a sphere is developed and validated against numerical solutions.
- The simplified model demonstrates accuracy for sphere radii larger than two capillary lengths.
- Experimental validation was successfully performed using common liquids and small steel spheres.
Conclusions:
- The novel procedure offers a practical and accurate approach for determining static contact angle and surface tension.
- The simplified Young-Laplace equation model expands the applicability to smaller spheres than previously possible.
- This method provides a valuable tool for surface characterization in various scientific and industrial applications.
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