Influence of Surface Roughness and Surface Functional Groups on Surface Energy Hysteresis

Project to be carried out at YKI, Stockholm, Sweden.

Background
The surface energy of materials is often characterized by contact angle measurements using probe liquids of known properties. These types of measurements are challenging to interpret on paper which has a irregular surface roughness and also displays capillary forces.

Project
This thesis work will use paper of different surface roughness and different amount of functional groups to show the influence on contact angle hysteresis.

Requirements
Program in chemical engineering or related topics.
Start: Spring term 2007 (early). 20 credit points.
To apply/for further information
Contact Agne Swerin, YKI
Tel: +46 8 5010 6031
[email protected]

YKI, Institute for Surface Chemistry, is the internationally leading industrial research institute in applied surface and colloid chemistry. YKI’s clients come from many industrial sectors e.g. materials, industrial chemicals, household and personal care products, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, food, coatings, paint, engineering, paper, print and packaging. The business model of YKI is to understand the needs of our clients and use surface chemistry to solve industrial problems and provide the basis for new products and processes. YKI is part of the SP Group. YKI is located in a research-intensive area on the campus of the technical university (KTH) in Stockholm. See www.yki.se for further information.