Device for the Measurement of Linear and Nonlinear Rheological Interfaces
Tech ID: 22221 / UC Case 2012-235-0
Brief Description
A novel device and technique for the measurement of the rheological properties of fluid interfaces.
Background
Common devices for measuring the rheological properties (visco-elasticity, shear-dependent viscosity and yield stress) of a fluid interface use large probes that are not sensitive enough to accurately measure such small interfaces. The probe’s permanent surface chemistry also makes it very difficult to measure these properties in the wide range of nonlinear interfaces existing in common fluid systems.
Description
Researchers at the University of California, Santa Barbara have developed a novel device and technique for the measurement of the rheological properties of fluid interfaces. The device uses an extremely small and precise probe to extract the properties of very small volumes of sample with 100 times the sensitivity of current devices. The sensitivity of the probe makes it possible to conserve the sample and reduce measurement cost. The probe is designed to allow for tunable surface chemistry for the measurement of a wide range of both linear and nonlinear interfaces.
Advantages
- Small probe size allows measurements of minute sample volumes
- Measurement in a wide range of interfaces
- Extremely sensitive
- Precise shape enables quantitative measurement of linear and nonlinear properties
Applications
- Foams and emulsions
- Froth flotation and enhanced oil recovery
- Food science
- Biological systems (cell lipid bilayers, eye tear films)
This technology is available for licensing.
Patent Status
Patent Pending
Inventors
- Unassigned, Name
Other Information
Related cases
2012-235-0
Keywords
Rheology, Rheological, Interface, Fluid, Viscosity
Contact
Franco Caporale / caporale@tia.ucsb.edu / tel: View Phone Number. Please reference Tech ID #22221.
