Gibbsian thermodynamics has been used to understand fluid interface behavior for more than 140 years. However, the treatments are often applied to the least complicated of systems (such as single-component systems or ideal geometries). My research group has worked on developing thermodynamic descriptions of more complicated systems with multiple phases, multiple components, or sophisticated geometries. Some interesting phenomena are described such as the effect of fluid interface curvature on multicomponent phase equilibrium including nanoscale-curvature-induced shift of azeotropes (equal volatility points) and eutectics (meeting of freezing and precipitating liquidus curves below which liquid cannot exist in equilibrium). In addition, we are interested in combining fluid interface physics with bulk phase fluid mechanics to understand complex phenomena such as low-pressure evaporation. Finally, because we want to develop accurate theoretical descriptions of complicated real systems in applications, we are developing semi-empirical approaches that combine fundamental thermodynamics with information gained by fitting experimental data, including an equation for multicomponent surface tension with broad applicability.

Thermodynamics of systems with fluid interfaces

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ACS Fall 2022

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.