Method for determining the speed of particles dispersed in a flowing solution

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention describes a method for determining the speed of particles dispersed in a flowing solution near a solid wall. The technique uses the generation of an evanescent wave at the interface between the wall and the solution, and measures the temporal autocorrelation of light scattered by the particles. By fitting this measured autocorrelation to a theoretical model, the method can resolve particle velocities with very high spatial precision (tens of nanometers) close to the wall surface.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Measuring fluid dynamics in microfluidic devices
• Investigating near-surface flows for tribology (lubrication science)
• Studying the slip behavior of fluids at solid boundaries
• Analyzing blood flow or drug delivery on a nanoscopic scale in biomedical research
• Quality control for nanoparticle suspensions in industrial processes
• Fundamental research in soft matter physics and rheology

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• High spatial resolution for velocity measurements (down to tens of nanometers from the wall)
• Non-invasive and label-free measurement using light scattering
• Applicable across a variety of geometries and fluid types
• Enables precise determination of slip length and surface effects in fluid flow
• Potentially simpler setup compared to other high-resolution flow measurement techniques
• Can investigate both steady and dynamic behaviors of particles in flow

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Patent Abstract

The method involves generating an evanescent wave propagated in direct surrounding of a solid wall, and detecting a temporal autocorrelation function of scattered intensity. The autocorrelation function is adjusted with a theoretical temporal model correlation function for determining relaxation rates. The rates are applied against particle penetration depth by determining space resolved shear rate. Particle speed is determined based on the temporal autocorrelation function of the scattered intensity of the evanescent wave.