Surfaces and Interfaces of Free-Standing Smectic Films

Abstract

Abstract. Free-standing smectic films are unique fluid objects with an exceptionally large surface-to-volume ratio. They are excellently suited for studies of surface and interface properties of liquids. We describe surface tension measurements in the smectic and isotropic phases, with particular emphasis on anomalies near the phase transitions. A model that considers the excess surface entropy of ordered surface layers is applied to describe the experimental observations qualitatively and quantitatively. From the geometrical properties of isotropic droplets in free-standing films and from the forces acting on these droplets, interface tensions between the smectic and isotropic phases are derived. Finally, we report measurements of the gas permeation through smectic films and develop a model for the description of the film-thickness dependence of the permeation coefficient.

Molecular dimensions and surface diffusion assisted mechanically robust slippery perfluoropolyether impregnated mesoporous alumina interfaces

“…However, surface diffusion is a rather appropriate mechanism, especially when the interacting impregnating liquid is absent in the few micrometers of the sample top layers. The density, viscosity, surface diffusivity [72][73][74][75] and molecular dimensions [78][79][80] of the liquids are collected from literature and presented in figure 7. The calculated evaporation rates, capillarity time and interfacial surface tension values are also presented.…”