Abstract
A model investigation of the coupling of the mass transfer of surfactants and the fluid flows in emulsion systems is presented. The case of close approach of two emulsion droplets, when a thin liquid layer is formed in the narrowest parts between the fluid interfaces, is analysed. New scaling parameters are proposed, based on the introduction of the surface Peclet number Pe s. The increase in this surface analogue of the bulk Peclet number results in an increased mobility of the interfaces and in a reduced influence of the surfactant. The validity of the lubrication theory model for the drainage of the thin layers is outlined in terms of the tangential mobility and the Gibbs elasticity of the interfaces. The influence of surfactants on the tangential mobility and the velocity of coalescence is discussed.
Published Version
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