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Abstract

This study investigates the behavior of water droplets acquiring an electrical charge in mineral oil, a non-polar environment. The experimental setup was developed and refined to improve control and understanding of droplet behavior and charge acquisition. Modifications included using a longer acrylic cube and longer electrodes, alongside a DC high-power supply. Droplet detachment was optimized, allowing for better observation of droplet interactions with the mineral oil. Analysis of experimental results revealed that droplet size influences movement dynamics and charge acquisition. The polarity of droplets changed throughout the experiment, which could indicate a time-dependent change in surface charges on the droplet. These findings contribute to understanding droplet behavior in non-polar oil environments.

Document Type

Final Report

Author's School

McKelvey School of Engineering

Author's Department

Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science

Class Name

Mechanical Engineering and Material Sciences Independent Study

Date of Submission

5-10-2024

Available for download on Monday, May 10, 2027

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