I am studying the re-swelling kinetics of dried hydrogel films. I want to use a rheometer to follow the modulus decrease during the re-swelling.
However, during the re-swelling both the thickness and the diameter of the dried hydrogel sample change, affecting the modulus calculation. In addition, since the water is only supplied through the outer circumference of the sample (top and bottom of the sample are in contact with the top and bottom rheometer plates), diffusion is slow.
Has anyone performed such measurements in the past? I'm thinking of drilling holes in the top plate to allow water supply, but not sure how that will affect the rheological measurement...
Why not investigate light transmission through the gel samples as a measure of change? As they take on water, the transmission (abs) changes. You can plot the change over time.
Dear all, please take a look at these documents. If you use the keyword 'swelling/deswelling of gels' in your search, you will endup with many documents. My Regards
https://doi.org/10.1016/0032-3861(95)93123-4
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijsolstr.2014.10.009
Most rheometer manufacturers offer upper measuring plates to deal with the situation you describe. Researchers wishing to study rheological properties under controlled humidity, during drying and in solvent evaporation based curing systems also have the same issue when using a standard solid measuring plate. I suggest you contact your rheometer manufacturer to discuss options.
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