Abstract
Understanding the phenomenon of droplet coalescence in nanoparticle suspensions is extremely important for the preparation of Pickering emulsions. A microfluidic platform, which can provide compulsive droplet collisions, was developed to imitate the droplet coalescence process in the early stages of emulsification. Microscope videos showed the variations in the droplet coalescence percentage, droplet contact time, and liquid film drainage time in different working systems containing 158-306 nm polystyrene (PS) particles in the continuous oil phase. The intersections of the half and total droplet contact times as well as the liquid film drainage time indicated the transitions of coalescence percentage. The additional hydrodynamic resistance in the liquid film between the approaching interfaces caused by the embedded hydrophobic nanoparticles was understood to be the main reason for reduced droplet coalescence, whereas hydrophilic particles were found to promote coalescence. As a novel method, the microfluidic collision experiment provided accurate and quantitative data for analyzing the formation of Pickering emulsions.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
