Applied Rheology (Oct 2010)

Rheometry of Non-Newtonian Polymer Solution Using Microchannel Pressure Driven Flow

  • Bandulasena H. C. H.,
  • Zimmerman W. B.,
  • Rees J. M.

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3933/applrheol-20-55608
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 20, no. 5

Abstract

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This paper is concerned with the determination of the constitutive parameters of low concentrations of the complex fluid polyethylene glycol (PEO). Velocity fields of PEO solutions in a microfluidic T-junction have been measured for pressure driven flow using micron resolution particle image velocimetry. As the fluid is forced to turn the corner of the T-junction a range of shear rates, and therefore viscosities, is produced. Thus it is possible to establish the rheological profile from a single experiment. An inverse method used in conjunction with a finite element model was used to determine the constitutive parameters of the fluid, estimated to within 1.5 % error in all three cases considered.

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