November 2005
Obtaining high performance coatings through simple latex film simulations
Latex film formation through evaporation deposition: Monte Carlo Study
In the formation of high performance coatings, it is known that the process whereby a film forms from a colloidal dispersion is a key step. Conversely, how the solvent evaporation process affects the structure of the film during this stage is not well understood. The irreversible nature of the evaporation process necessitates the use of non-standard theoretical methods and even simple models can be important tools.
In this paper published in AZojomo*, researchers Yuri Reyes, Flavio V�zquez and Yurko Duda, from Universidad Nacional Autόnoma de M�xico (UNAM), Instituto Mexicano del Petr�leo and the Institute for Condensed Matter Physics, applied the simplest model of the evaporation process. Drying rate and viscosity of a continuous medium were used as variables in a Monte Carlo (MC) simulation to study film formation.
The viscosity of the material caused by diffusion of colloidal particles was found to affect film formation. However, as the drying rate decreased, the influence of the is phenomenon diminishes. It was demonstrated that by lowering the drying rate, a higher density and more organized film structure could be obtained.
The article is available to view at http://www.azom.com/Details.asp?ArticleID=3119
*AZojomo publishes high quality articles and papers on all aspects of materials science and related technologies. All the contributions are reviewed by a world class panel of editors who are experts in a wide spectrum of materials science. [See http://www.azom.com/Journal%20Editorial%20Board.asp]
AZojomo is based on the patented OARS (Open Access Rewards System) publishing protocol. The OARS protocol represents a unique development in the field of scientific publishing � the distribution of online scientific journal revenue between the authors, peer reviewers and site operators with no publication charges, just totally free to access high quality, peer reviewed materials science. [See http://www.azom.com/azojomo.asp and http://www.azom.com/oars.asp]