I am doing an experiment wherein we are depositing some hydrophilic nano-particles on a functionalised surface. We are then displacing the aqueous phase with a high viscosity oil phase. However, we are losing approx. 10-20% of the aqueous phase as a hydration layer.
To resolve this we have increased viscosity of oil, added Tween 20 to oil, mixed 10% IPA in aqueous phase. We were able to reduce the liquid loss but it was not repeatable. In addition, use of IPA and ethanol is detrimental to binding of particles to the surface.
As per constraints of our system, we are unable to change flow rate and coating of the channel.
I would appreciate any suggestions on this?
Dear Rohan,
It will be difficult to prevent a liquid film to be deposited on your surface when you are displacing the aqueous phase. However you can strongly reduce the layer thickness by displacing with air at an as low as possible speed of the air. See Makuch, K., Gorce, J-B, Garstecki, P., Non-wetting droplets in capillaries of circular cross-section: Scaling function, Phys. Fluids 31, 043102, 2019
To address the issue of losing the aqueous phase as a hydration layer while adhering to your constraints, here are some suggestions:
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