Hydrostatic pressure measurement for evaluation of particle dispersion and flocculation in slurries containing temperature responsive polymers

Abstract

The state of particle dispersion and flocculation was evaluated through hydrostatic pressure measurements in aqueous slurries of alumina with neutral and charged temperature responsive co-polymers of poly (N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM). Slurries were prepared and poured into test tubes at room temperature, and then heated in a hot water bath to a controlled temperature. The slurries were then cooled down to room temperature. The hydrostatic pressure at the bottom of the slurry was continuously measured. The effect of the fraction of charge on the polymer on the particle dispersion state was investigated by changing the ratio of acrylic acid (AA) to PNIPAM in the synthesized co-polymers. It..