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OCT Velocimetry and X-ray Scattering Rheology of Complex Fluids
[Thesis]. Manchester, UK: The University of Manchester; 2016.
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Abstract
Optical Coherence Tomography Velocimetry (OCTV) is a technique based on principals developed for medical imaging and is used to measure the velocity as a function of sample depth for a range of complex fluid systems, revealing insight into rheological properties that are otherwise ignored by bulk rheometry methods. The technique fulfils the requirements needed to study a wide range of complex systems, being capable of measuring absolute velocity and velocity fluctuations with high spatial and temporal resolution, as well as in opaque materials.Improvements to the instrumentation behind OCTV are described in detail, with improvements to signal to noise being achieved through better detection and the use of modulation techniques. The technique is also demonstrated in a range of complex fluids including dense suspensions of hard spheres, DNA solutions, polyacrylamide solutions, bacteria and shampoo amongst others. Non-linear flow behaviour is revealed that includes shear banding, wall slip and elastic turbulence.X-ray scattering techniques are also discussed, with results from recent experiments at the Diamond synchrotron being presented.The commercial potential of OCTV is discussed in depth, with analysis of the market of scientific instruments for measuring flow, competitor analysis and a review of relevant intellectual property. Methods to commercialise OCTV are discussed, with licensing to an existing competitor being identified as the means with the least risk and greatest chance of success.
Keyword(s)
Complex Fluids; Elastic Turbulence; Optical Coherence Tomograpthy; Rheology; Shear Banding; Velocimetry