Exact calculation of axisymmetric capillary bridge properties between two unequal-sized spherical particles

Abstract

A calculation method for the meridional profile of axisymmetric bridges between two spheres of different size is introduced in this manuscript. From geometrical data of the capillary bridge, such as the neck radius and boundary conditions (filling and contact angle), the shape of the capillary bridge is calculated analytically as a solution of the Young–Laplace equation. Its free surfaces, of constant mean curvature, may be classified into portions of nodoid, unduloid, and other limit cases. Moreover, other properties of the liquid bridge can be computed analytically, such as the associated capillary force exerted on the solid surfaces, liquid volume, mean curvature, and free surface area.