Phase Separation: Conclusions

Index Experiments Theory Simulation Drops Conclusions
blue bar

The dynamics of phase separation depend on the convection parameter .
For small , the formation of sharp interfaces and the domain growth are two stages of the separation process that occur one after the other. For large , phase separation and domain growth occur simultaneously.
While the system is phase separating (before sharp interfaces are formed), the characteristic domain size grows linearly in time and the domain composition changes rapidly.
Once sharp interfaces are formed, domains grow as t^1/3, and the composition inside the domains reaches a metastable state.
The motion of liquid droplets in phase separating mixtures depends on differences between the concentration of the continuum phase and its equilibrium value, , as well as on convection.
Drops immersed in concentration gradients experience a Marangoni force, which drags the drops up the gradient.
Isolated drops immersed in homogeneous concentration fields grow linearly in size and move randomly, when > 0; otherwise, drops shrink and do not move.
The capillary forces induce mutual attraction between two drops. If < 0, the attractive force leads to coalescence, while when < 0, a screening effect may keep the drops apart from each other.

Index Experiments Theory Simulation Drops Conclusions
blue bar

Last modified: 10 January 1999