Fractal Vane Rotors for Rheology Measurements of Yield Stress Fluids

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Applications

This technology uses a novel vane cross-sectional structure and detachable textured sample container to measure flow properties of yield stress fluids with high accuracy. This rheometric instrumentation, used in conjunction with a standard rheometer, can improve the process of analyzing yield stress fluids in a range of industrial, commercial, and academic settings. The technology has significant applications in a wide variety of consumer goods (e.g., toothpaste, cosmetics, ketchup), construction products (e.g., cement), and also in the field of oil/gas exploration (drilling muds and fracking fluids).

Problem Addressed

Yield stress fluids are versatile materials that flow only when sufficient force is applied to them. They have significant applications in a wide variety of consumer goods (e.g., toothpaste, cosmetics, ketchup) and construction products (e.g., cement). A rheometer is used to measure the viscous flow properties of liquids, but current instrumentation poses several challenges to accurately analyzing yield stress fluids.

A rheometer with a fixed container is used to hold a yield stress fluid for assessment. Unfortunately, the rigid design of containers imparts non-homogeneous flow in the sample during the loading process. Furthermore, the multi-blade geometry of typical 4-arm vane structures causes an uneven stress field on a yield stress fluid. Non-homogeneous flow and uneven stress fields both lead to errors in viscosity measurements. This technology addresses these challenges by redesigning the sample container and vane rotor.

Technology

The presented technology comprises a fractal vane structure and a detachable container for the rheometer. The vane rotor consists of a branch-like cross-sectional profile that spreads symmetrically outwards from the center spindle. This fractal layout minimizes projected area, increases surface area contact with fluid, and substantially increases the number of outer contact edges for the vane, creating a more homogeneous stress field. The detachable container is designed with a textured inner surface for enhanced grip of the sample fluid.

Both components for the rheometer can be time efficiently and cost effectively produced by a desktop stereolithography 3D printer, or through other means with further development. Once the instrument is prepared for stress testing, the detachable container can be evenly filled with the yield stress fluid and fastened onto the base of the rheometer. The fractal vane structure then presses into the material, gradually increasing in rotational force. Torque and rotation rate measurements from the rheometer are collected and processed through two composite formulas, which output stress and shear rate calculations for the sample.

Advantages

Improves quantitative accuracy in measuring yield stress
Eases the process of loading and cleaning yield stress fluids from sample container
Decreases manufacturing costs and time for components by using 3D printing
Multiple versions of improved design are available, allowing for further tailoring to specific material needs (ex. large aggregates, especially high or low torques required, especially fragile material)