Title: The effect of interfacial stresses on foam and emulsion stability

Lecturer: Asst. Prof. Manolis Chatzigiannakis
Affiliation: Processing and Performance of Materials Group and Institute of Complex Molecular Systems; Eindhoven University of Technology; Eindhoven; the Netherlands
Location: Room E130, Dept. of Mathematics' Bldg.
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Time: 16:00
Language:

Abstract

The stability and rheology of multiphase materials, such as foams and emulsions, are largely governed by the properties of their interfaces and the behavior of thin liquid films (TLFs) separating interacting droplets or bubbles. When two bubbles come into close proximity, a TLF forms between them and progressively thins through drainage. This thinning process, along with the overall stability of TLFs, is strongly influenced by interfacial stresses and intermolecular interactions driven by surface-active species, as well as by capillarity and hydrodynamics. In this talk, we will discuss how experimental techniques, such as the dynamic thin film balance and interfacial shear rheometry, shed light on nano- and micro-scale physics of these materials, specifically focusing on sustainable multiphase soft materials, such as firefighting foams, plant-based edible foams, and emulsions. Particular attention will be given to films stabilized by low molecular weight surfactants (Marangoni stresses), copolymers (surface viscous), and plant proteins (surface viscoelastic), and how they impact foam and emulsion destabilization.

  1. Chatzigiannakis, E., Vermant, J. (2024). Journal of Rheology, 68(4), 655-663.
  2. Chatzigiannakis, E., Yang, J., Sagis, L. M., Nikiforidis, C. V. (2025). Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, 683, 408-419.
  3. Chatzigiannakis, E., Alicke, A., Le Bars, L., Bidoire, L, Vermant, J. (2025). Physics of Fluids, 37 (8), 082139.
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