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How to make a giant bubble

Stephen Frazier, Xinyi Jiang, and Justin C. Burton*

  • Department of Physics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA

  • *justin.c.burton@emory.edu
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Phys. Rev. Fluids 5, 013304 – Published 29 January, 2020

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevFluids.5.013304

Abstract

Using mixtures of soap, water, and long-chain polymers, free-floating soap bubbles can be formed with volumes approaching 100m3. Here we investigate how such thin films are created and maintained over time. We show how the extensional rheology is the most important factor in creating the bubble and how polydispersity in molecular weight of the solvated polymers leads to better performance at lower concentrations. Additionally, using IR absorption, we measure soap film thickness profiles and film lifetimes. Although the initial thickness mostly depends on the choice of detergent, polymers can dramatically increase film lifetime at high molecular weights and high concentrations, although such high concentrations can inhibit the initial film formation. Thus, the ideal concentration of polymer additives for making giant bubbles requires a robust viscoelastic rheology during extension and is aided by long film lifetimes during gravitational drainage and evaporation.

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Phys. Rev. Fluids 5, 013304– Published 29 January, 2020
  • Received 1 August 2019
Article part of CHORUS
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