Mechanical properties of particle-covered droplets probed by nonuniform electric field

Particle-covered droplets are used in several fundamental studies and practical applications. For many applications, it is important to understand the mechanics of these subjected induced external stresses, such as an electric field (E-field). Several research groups have studied deformation stability uniform E-fields. However, behavior particle-laden nonuniform E-fields inadequately reported. In this study, we present silicone oil coated by electrically insulating particle shell suspended castor oil. Such deform compressively under a direct current E-field. We create with different intensities gradients changing applied potential, shape signal electrode, its position relative stationary plate-shaped electrode. The experimental results droplet compared calculated values obtained through modeling distribution E-field around cylindrical electrode using finite element method. quantitatively how geometry, size affect magnitude deformation. Then relate opening created presence show that allows designing procedures for inserting material into droplet, well inspecting interior content particle-covered without affecting shell. Furthermore, study origin liquid flows sample cell two-dimensional time-averaged flow maps, finding E-field-induced two origins. These findings may be relevant heat-transfer enhancement.