Measurement of a structured backflow in an open small channel induced by surface-tension gradients

Phys Rev Lett. 2013 May 24;110(21):214506. doi: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.110.214506. Epub 2013 May 23.

Abstract

We present experiments in which the laterally confined flow of a surfactant film driven by controlled surface tension gradients causes the subtended liquid layer to self-organize into an inner upstream microduct surrounded by the downstream flow. The anomalous interfacial flow profiles and the concomitant backflow are a result of the feedback between two-dimensional and three-dimensional microfluidics realized during flow in open microchannels. Bulk and surface particle image velocimetry data combined with an interfacial hydrodynamics model explain the dependence of the observed phenomena on channel geometry.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine / chemistry
  • Microfluidics / methods*
  • Models, Chemical*
  • Surface Tension
  • Surface-Active Agents / chemistry*

Substances

  • Surface-Active Agents
  • Dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine