Hydrodynamics of Wet Foams (ESA-MAP team report)

D. LANGEVIN; A. SAINT-JALMES; H. RITACCO; S. MARZE

Microgravity Applications Programme: Successful Teaming of Science and Technology

ESA Publication Division

Lugar: ESTEC, Noordwijk, The Netherlands; Año: 2005; p. 136 - 149

Foams and foaming pose important questions and problems to the chemical industry. As material, foam is unusual in being a desired product while also being an unwanted byproduct within industry. Liquid foams are an essential part of gas/liquid contacting processes such as distillation and absorption, but over-production of foam in these processes can lead to downtime and loss of effeciency. Solid polymeric foams, such as polystyrene and polyurethane, find applications as insulation panels in the construction industry. Their combination of low weight and unique elastic/plastic properties make them ideal as packing and cushioning materials. Foams made with proteins are extensively used in the food industry.Despite the fact that foam science is a rapidly maturing field, critical aspects of foam physics and chemistry remain unclear. Several gaps in knowledge were identified to be tackled as the core of this MAP project. In addition, microgravity affords conditions for extending our understanding far beyond the possibilities offered by ground-based investigation. This work concerns the drainage, rheology and stability of aqueous wet foams. In addition to laboratory research, it encompasses parabolic flights and Maxus sounding-rocket missions. The ultimate goal is to design and exploit an experimental facility for the International Space Station.