dråbeformanalyse

Dråbeformanalyse, also known as goniometry or contact angle measurement, is a technique used to characterize the wetting properties of a solid surface by a liquid. It involves observing the shape of a liquid droplet placed on the surface and measuring the angle formed at the three-phase contact line between the liquid, the solid, and the vapor. This angle, known as the contact angle, is a direct indicator of the surface's hydrophilicity or hydrophobicity.

A small droplet of the liquid is carefully deposited onto the solid surface. A high-resolution camera captures an image of the droplet's profile. Specialized software then analyzes this image to determine the precise angle of the tangent to the liquid-vapor interface at the point where it intersects the solid surface. A low contact angle (less than 90 degrees) indicates that the liquid spreads easily on the surface, signifying good wetting and often a hydrophilic surface. Conversely, a high contact angle (greater than 90 degrees) suggests that the liquid beads up and has limited contact with the surface, indicating poor wetting and a hydrophobic surface.

Dråbeformanalyse is a valuable tool in various scientific and industrial fields. It is used in material science for assessing surface treatments, coatings, and the adhesion properties of materials. In the pharmaceutical industry, it can help understand drug delivery mechanisms and the interaction of active ingredients with biological surfaces. For the textile industry, it is crucial for evaluating the water repellency or absorbency of fabrics. The technique is relatively simple, non-destructive, and provides quantitative data that can be used for quality control, research, and development.