Pair distribution functions of colloidal particles on a quartz collector in a parallel plate and stagnation point flow chamber

Abstract

Pair distribution functions of polystyrene particles adhering on a quartz collector surface are compared for a parallel plate (PP) and stagnation point (SP) flow chamber at a common Peclet number and identical surface coverage. Radial pair distribution functions of deposition patterns around the stagnation point in the SP flow chamber typically shows dampened oscillations at larger interparticle distances. Radial pair distributions in the PP flow chamber, however, do not indicate such oscillations. Furthermore, in the PP flow chamber, local distribution functions calculated in the direction of flow are asymmetrical with a depletion zone downstream adhering particles. Local pair distribution functions perpendicular to the flow are symmetrical. The comparison of pair distribution functions obtained in two different flow chambers shows how deposition patterns can be influenced by flow and collisions between flowing and adhering particles.