Work

How volatile components stabilize bulk nanobubbles: a model study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: Although bulk nanobubbles have been widely studied, the contribution of volatile components to their stability remains largely unexplored. Methods: This work investigates the stabilizing effect of volatile components (e.g., CO2, short-chain hydrocarbons) on nanobubbles in liquid bulk. A thermodynamic model is established to account for the dynamic equilibrium between non-condensable gas (exemplified by oxygen) and volatile species inside the bubble. The model was developed and validated using molecular dynamics simulations. Results: The findings demonstrate that volatile components introduce a negative-feedback mechanism that balances gas exchange across the bubble interface, thereby enabling long-term stability. By contrast, systems containing only non-condensable gases fail to sustain stable nanobubbles. Discussion: This study reveals that the synergistic interaction between volatile and non-condensable gases is a key mechanism for stabilizing bulk nanobubbles.

Source: Frontiers in Chemistry

DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2026.1792068

Authors: Jing Li, Zhenjiang Guo, Shuai Xia, Hongguang Zhang, Xianren Zhang

Institutions: Jining Medical University, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing University

Language: English

Topic: Minerals Flotation and Separation Techniques

Subfield: Water Science and Technology

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801

Funder: Jining Medical University