The interfacial properties unit

The interfacial properties unit is a part of the Central Laboratory of the Physical and Chemical Testing of Foods of the Department of Food Technology in ATEI of Thessaloniki. It is a laboratory deveoted to interfacail properties determiantion. Special focus is given in food and biological systems.

Interfacial properties unit responsible: Dr. Eleni P. Kalogianni

Measurements involve:

  • Equilibrium, Static and Dynamic interfaical tension of water/air and ater/oil interfaces
  • Determination of critical micelle concentration (CMC)
  • Static, advancing and receding contact angle
  • Dilatational rheology of interfaces
  • Shear rheology of interfaces (- Elastic (storage) modulus, G’ – Viscous (loss) modulus, G’’ – Dynamic interfacial viscosity, μs*- relaxation time τ ; measurements as a function of frequency, time, strain, temperature or surface pressure)
  • Studies of the properties of molecules in monolayers
  • Visualization of monolayers using Brewster Angle Microscopy (Monolayer/film homogeneity under different subphase conditons, monitoring and detection of adsorption of surface active materials such as proteins and nanoparticles
  • Surface free energy
  • Powder wettability
  • Adsorption
  • Wettability
  • Cleanliness
  • Density

Available instruments:

CAM 200, KSV with pulsating drop module for dilatational rheological measurements

ISR2 (Interfacial Shear Rheometer), Biolin Scientific

Langmuir troughs and balance for liquid/liquid and liquid/air interfaces

Brewster Angle Microscope, Biolin Scientific

Force Tensiometer, Sigma 700, Attension