Thixotropic spectra and Ashby-style charts for thixotropy
Abstract
There is no universal model for thixotropy, and comparing thixotropic effects between different fluids is a subtle yet challenging problem. We introduce a generalized (model-insensitive) framework for comparing thixotropic properties based on thixotropic spectra. A superposition of exponential stress modes distributed over thixotropic timescales is used to quantify buildup and breakdown times and mode strengths in response to step-change input. This mathematical framework is tested with several experimental step-shear rate data on colloidal suspensions. Low-dimensional metrics based on moments of the distribution reveal characteristic average thixotropic properties which are visualized on Ashby-style diagrams. This method outlines a framework for describing thixotropy across a diverse range of microstructures, supporting scientific studies as well as material selection for engineering design applications.
Keywords
Cite
@article{arxiv.2201.10004,
title = {Thixotropic spectra and Ashby-style charts for thixotropy},
author = {Samya Sen and Randy H. Ewoldt},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2201.10004},
year = {2023}
}
Comments
27 pages, 7 figures, Supplementary Information included in ancillary files as SI.pdf