An improved and semi-automated version of the drop volume technique for interfacial tension measurement

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Abstract
Although it requires only small volumes of liquids, the drop volume technique is capable of measuring interfacial tensions with high precision. The volume of the drop which just detaches from a cylindrical support of known radius is determined, and this value is used in conjunction with known liquid densities and empirically derived tables (Harkins and Brown 1919) to calculate the interfacial tension. A syringe micrometer head (Mitutoyo Digimatic Series 164) allows the traditional technique to be improved in two ways. First, the new head has an increased capacity, which in certain systems means that the accessible range of interfacial tensions is widened and in others that more data are obtained from a single setting-up of the system. Second, the head is capable of outputting in BCD form. This allows the technique to be made on-line and eliminates a tedious calculation routine.