Measurement and analysis of forces in bubble and droplet systems using AFM

• Published in: Journal of colloid and interface science 2012-04, Vol.371 (1), p.1-14
• Main Authors: Tabor, Rico F., Grieser, Franz, Dagastine, Raymond R., Chan, Derek Y.C.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Atomic force microscope; Atomic force microscopy; Bubbles; Chemistry; Colloidal state and disperse state; Colloids; Deformable; drainage; Droplets; Drops; Dynamics; emulsions; Emulsions. Microemulsions. Foams; Exact sciences and technology; Foams; General and physical chemistry; Hydrodynamics; Impact tests; Quantitative analysis; Surface forces
• ISSN: 0021-9797; 1095-7103
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2011.12.047

[Display omitted] ► Atomic force microscopy measures forces between drops and bubbles. ► Modelling frameworks for quasi-equilibrium and dynamic forces are presented. ► Highlights of recent experimental advances in forces from soft matter AFM. ► Van der Waals, electrical double-layer, structural and hydrodynamic forces. The use of atomic force microscopy to measure and understand the interactions between deformable colloids – particularly bubbles and drops – has grown to prominence over the last decade. Insight into surface and structural forces, hydrodynamic drainage and coalescence events has been obtained, aiding in the understanding of emulsions, foams and other soft matter systems. This article provides information on experimental techniques and considerations unique to performing such measurements. The theoretical modelling frameworks which have proven crucial to quantitative analysis are presented briefly, along with a summary of the most significant results from drop and bubble AFM measurements. The advantages and limitations of such measurements are noted in the context of other experimental force measurement techniques.