KOLEZAKIS, NIKOLAOS (2024) Charged vesicle gels in consumer goods: An experimental and numerical study of structure, dynamics, and rheology. [Tesi di dottorato]

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Abstract

Liquid formulations like liquid detergents and fabric softeners are of significant interest in the consumer product industry. These products are characterized by the complexity of their composition, which derives from the presence of several additives to enhance user experience. However, this complexity also makes the formulations prone to instabilities that impact both their appearance and performance. Gaining insights into their microscopic dynamics and flow behavior is therefore crucial, as is developing frameworks to model their response to various flows and stresses. Such models are essential for designing formulations with longer shelf-life and enhanced mechanical properties. The thesis aims to develop a simulation framework that accurately characterizes the rheological behavior of liquid fabric enhancers and link these properties to their microscopic dynamics. To achieve this, we will combine Brownian Dynamics simulations with experimental techniques, such as Differential Dynamic Microscopy and rheometry, to validate our model predictions. This validation will be carried out through various rheological tests, including steady and oscillatory shear flows, as well as shear stress applications. The study will focus on both the basis of fabric enhancers, particularly charged vesicle suspensions, and their mixtures with a non-adsorbing polymer that form the structural network in fabric softeners.

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