Complex Fluids: The Physics of Emulsions

Complex Fluids: The Physics of Emulsions
by M. E. Cates

Publisher: arXiv 2012
Number of pages: 43

Description:
These lectures start with the mean field theory for a symmetric binary fluid mixture, addressing interfacial tension, the stress tensor, and the equations of motion (Model H). We then consider the phase separation kinetics of such a mixture: coalescence, Ostwald ripening, its prevention by trapped species, coarsening of bicontinuous states, and the role of shear flow. The third topic addressed is the stabilization of emulsions by using surfactants to reduce or even eliminate the interfacial tension between phases.