A reassessment of the wall effect of non-newtonian flow of polymer solutions

Abstract

An apparatus for checking slip interpretation of flow anomalies in the laminar capillary flow of macromolecular solutions is described. It consists of a two-dimensional flow channel, having a uniform width of 1.5 inch and an alternative, convergent taper that is adjustable. Dilute aqueous solutions of the polymers Carbopol, Natrosol, and Polyox are recirculated in steady laminar flow from a large reservoir. Velocities, pressures, and wall shear stresses are measured. Local velocities are obtained by the local injection of conductive tracer fluid, whose passage is sensed by sets of electrodes stationed along the flow. Wall shear stresses are measured on a small, freely displaceable, traction surface flush with the channel wall. The tests cover concentrations of Carbopol of 0.1% to 0.4%, Natrosol of 0.5% to 1%, and Polyox of 0.5% to 1%. Approximate viscosities range from about 10 to 1000 cP. Wall shear rates up to 1000 s⁻¹ are attained.

The results are in good agreement with the established viscometric properties of the tested materials. Actual shear stresses agree with those calculated from pressure drops, and velocities exhibit no detectable anomaly near the wall. Any velocity anomaly in the experiment would have to be less than 3% of the mean flow velocity.

An order of magnitude analysis, based on particulate behavior, is made in an attempt to delineate an underlying mechanism.