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International Conference on Multiscale Applications of Surface Tension, Date: 2016/09/05 - 2016/09/08, Location: Brussels

Publication date: 2016-09-06

Author:

Gijsenbergh, Pieter
Pepicelli, Martina ; Wirth, Christopher L ; Vermant, Jan ; Puers, Bob

Keywords:

MEMS, Interfacial rheology, Microfluidics, Surface pressure

Abstract:

A semi-flexible SU-8 microdevice was developed to measure local changes in interfacial tension at an air-water interface. The sensitivity and response time were determined via simulations. The microtensiometer performance was verified in a Langmuir trough by applying rapid local surface pressure variations. A Wilhelmy plate was used as an independent surface pressure measurement and the results of both techniques correlate well. The microtensiometer has a theoretical resolution of 0.02 mN·m−1 and a response time of 20 ms.