Combining Microfluidics and Microrheology to Determine Rheological Properties of Soft Matter during Repeated Phase Transitions

Matthew D. Wehrman; Melissa J. Milstrey; Seth Lindberg; Kelly M. Schultz

doi:10.3791/57429

Combining Microfluidics and Microrheology to Determine Rheological Properties of Soft Matter duri...

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Combining Microfluidics and Microrheology to Determine Rheological Properties of Soft Matter during Repeated Phase Transitions

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11:38 min

April 19, 2018

DOI: 10.3791/57429-v

Matthew D. Wehrman¹, Melissa J. Milstrey¹, Seth Lindberg², Kelly M. Schultz¹

¹Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering,Lehigh University, ²Process and Engineering Development,Procter & Gamble Co.

Overview

This study presents a microfluidic device designed for multiple particle tracking microrheology measurements. It focuses on understanding the rheological effects of repeated phase transitions in soft matter.

Key Study Components

Area of Science

Microfluidics
Soft Matter Physics
Rheology

Background

Microfluidics allows for precise control of fluid environments.
Phase transitions can significantly alter the properties of soft materials.
Multiple particle tracking microrheology provides insights into dynamic changes.
Real-time characterization is crucial for understanding complex systems.

Purpose of Study

To investigate the impact of phase transitions on rheological properties.
To enable real-time measurement of soft matter behavior.
To quantify unique rheological properties in heterogeneous systems.

Methods Used

Fabrication of a microfluidic device.
Inducing consecutive phase transitions by fluid exchange.
Measurement of rheological properties using multiple particle tracking.
Maintaining the sample in place during transitions for accurate data.

Main Results

Demonstrated the feasibility of the microfluidic device for rheological studies.
Showed how phase transitions affect the dynamic properties of soft matter.
Provided a method for real-time characterization of soft materials.
Quantified changes in rheological properties during phase transitions.

Conclusions

The microfluidic device is effective for studying soft matter rheology.
Real-time measurements enhance understanding of phase transition effects.
This approach can advance research in soft matter physics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main advantage of using microfluidics in this study?

The main advantage is that the sample remains in place during multiple phase transitions, allowing for real-time characterization.

How does this method contribute to the field of soft matter?

It provides insights into the impact of phase transitions on dynamic rheological properties, which is crucial for understanding soft materials.

What are the key components of the microfluidic device?

The device is designed to facilitate fluid exchange and enable multiple particle tracking for rheological measurements.

Can this technique be applied to other materials?

Yes, the technique can be adapted to study various soft matter systems beyond those initially tested.

What are the implications of this research?

The findings can lead to better understanding and manipulation of soft materials in various applications.

We demonstrate the fabrication and use of a microfluidic device that enables multiple particle tracking microrheology measurements to study the rheological effects of repeated phase transitions on soft matter.

The overall goal of this procedure is to use microfluidics to induce consecutive phase transitions in a single soft matter sample by exchanging the surrounding fluid while simultaneously measuring changes in the rheological properties using multiple particle tracking microrheology. This method can answer key questions in the soft matter field, such as the impact of phase transitions, including molecular or colloidal rearrangement on dynamic rheological properties. This technique's main advantage is that the sample remains in place during multiple phase transitions, enabling real-time characterization.

This allows quantification of rheological properties, especially unique properties in heterogeneous systems. To begin the procedure, print the microfluidic device negative on a clear acetate sheet, and warm up a high-intensity UV lamp. On a second clear acetate sheet, trace the corners of a 75 millimeter by 50 millimeter slide.

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