Rheological Properties of Thickened Liquids

Abstract

Abstract : In order to improve the performance of flame thrower fuels, the rheological properties of thickened liquids were investigated. The fluids were of two main types: solutions of a basic aluminum soap in gasoline, and methacrylate copolymers also dissolved in gasoline, with or without the addition of a soap such as sodium stearate. The prime requirements for a flame thrower thickened fluid is pseudo plasticity. Measurements of the apparent viscosity, modulus of rigidity, work hardening, thixotropy, thixotropy and other properties of a large number of thickened fluids were made using a variety of instruments. Measurements were made with the normal viscosimetric techniques, at frequencies of from 5 to 600 cps and under suddenly imposed shock. A limited number of practical tests were made and for unignited flame thrower studies a 1/8 37 deg conical nozzle was installed. A number of M56 incendiary bombs were filled with a widely varying liquids and the results on static ignition studied.