Non-linear and cyclical collisions between drops and bubbles: using AFM to understand droplet interactions in micro-scale flows

Abstract

Understanding the mechanics and outcome of droplet and bubble collisions is central to a range of processes from emulsion stability to mineral flotation. The atomic force microscope has been shown to be sensitive and accurate in measuring the forces during such interactions; in combination with a suitable model framework, a powerful tool is obtained for understanding surface forces and droplet stability in dynamic systems. Here we demonstrate for the first time that this process is not limited to linear motion, and that accelerating, decelerating and cyclical droplet velocities can be used to explore the collisions between droplets and bubbles in ways that much more closely mimic real systems. In particular, the motion of droplets experiencing oscillating pumping pressures is explored, providing insight into fluid handling for microfluidics. By modelling a range of processes in which drops collide and deform, and sometimes coalesce, the validity of the theoretical model – which accounts for deformation, surface forces and dynamic lubrication – is demonstrated. Further, it is shown how this model can be used as a predictive tool to determine whether a given droplet collision will be stable or coalescent.