Measurement of extensional viscosity using the falling drop technique. Final report, October 27, 1992--September 27, 1996

In the falling drop technique, a drop is formed by slowly extruding a liquid downward through a small tube. The drop eventually falls, and fluid adheres to both the tube and the drop, creating a distinct extending fiber. Extensional viscosity may be determined by measuring the dimensions of the fiber as it extends. The flow of fluid in a falling drop has been modeled in order to determine extensional viscosity by measuring the extending fiber. A falling drop rheometer was built, and fiber dimensions were measured using two digital cameras and an image processing system. Extensional viscosity was measured for various solutions of glycerol, xanthan gum, and water. The falling drop technique proved to be an effective extensional rheometer for a range of solution concentrations. 6 refs., 3 figs., 1 tab