Measurement of contact angles in a simulated microgravity environment generated by a large gradient magnetic field

• Published in: Review of scientific instruments 2016-09, Vol.87 (9), p.095107-095107
• Main Authors: Liu, Yong-Ming, Chen, Rui-Qing, Wu, Zi-Qing, Zhu, Jing, Shi, Jian-Yu, Lu, Hui-Meng, Shang, Peng, Yin, Da-Chuan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Contact angle; Magnetic fields; Measuring instruments; Microgravity; Scientific apparatus & instruments; Solid surfaces; Ultrasonic testing
• ISSN: 0034-6748; 1089-7623
• DOI: 10.1063/1.4963359

The contact angle is an important parameter that is essential for studying interfacial phenomena. The contact angle can be measured using commercially available instruments. However, these well-developed instruments may not function or may be unsuitable for use in some special environments. A simulated microgravity generated by a large gradient magnetic field is such an environment in which the current measurement instruments cannot be installed. To measure the contact angle in this environment, new tools must be designed and manufactured to be compatible with the size and physical environment. In this study, we report the development and construction of a new setup that was specifically designed for use in a strong magnetic field to measure the contact angle between a levitated droplet and a solid surface. The application of the setup in a large gradient magnetic field was tested, and the contact angles were readily measured.