Work

Elucidating on the drop impact dynamics of water-in-oil microemulsions via advanced rheometry

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Microemulsions are promising for diverse applications, but their complex rheology, especially at high shear rates , poses characterization challenges. This study investigates the impact of water-in-oil microemulsion drops on flat and curved surfaces, focusing on the critical role of high-shear rheology. We assessed rheological properties across a wide range of shear rates by combining conventional methods, high-frequency rheometry, and a recently developed drop-impact viscometry (DIV) technique. DIV captures a substantial apparent viscosity increase (up to 12-fold) at high shear rates, enabling the prediction of maximum spreading and splashing thresholds. We observed complete splash suppression at high-impact velocities, where splashing is typically severe. These insights into high-shear rheological properties are crucial for optimizing microemulsion formulation and performance in applications such as spray and fuel injection.

Source: Colloids and Surfaces A Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects

DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfa.2025.136952

Authors: Mete Abbot, Furui Yin, Maxim Piskunov, Ilia V. Roisman, Jeanette Hussong

Institutions: Technische Universität Darmstadt, Tomsk Polytechnic University, Surgut State University

Language: English

Topic: Fluid Dynamics and Heat Transfer

Subfield: Computational Mechanics

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,200