Dynamics of droplet with viscoelastic interface

Abstract

A theoretical model for droplet dynamics and rheology of blends with viscoelastic interface and interfacial slip is suggested in this work. The interfacial constitutive equation, so called as the Boussinesq–Scriven equation, is integrated in the pertubation analysis on the flow field inside and outside the droplet, while the interfacial slip is introduced via Navier slip boundary conditions. The results of small deformation analysis is extended to larger deformation using the ellipsoidal shape tensor. The effect of Boussinesq number, the interfacial viscosity ratio and the interfacial thickness on the characteristic relaxation time of droplet, the steady deformation of droplet and the shear viscosity of blends are discussed in detail. The model is validated by certain experimental data using interfacial viscosities that are reasonably measured in experiments.