Date of Award
5-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Mechanical Engineering
Committee Chair/Advisor
Dr. Joshua Bostwick
Committee Member
Dr. Zhen Li
Committee Member
Dr. Xin Zhao
Abstract
A granular raft at an oil–water interface exhibits unique mechanical properties, including the ability to form and sustain stable holes. In this study, we experimentally investigate the formation, stability, and collapse dynamics of holes in particle rafts composed of micrometer-sized particles. Holes are created using a hollow cylinder, which generates a meniscus that inhibits particle motion, thus stabilizing the hole. Stable holes are formed when their size reaches a critical value, which depends upon the capillary length. The critical hole size does not depend upon the circularity of the hole. We show that capillary forces due to the presence of the meniscus govern hole stability and that interparticle jamming forces, as defined by a local bond orientation number, play no role in stabilizing the hole. Unstable holes collapse inwards upon themselves, and we characterize the collapse dynamics, as they depend upon the experimental variables.
Recommended Citation
Saha, Plabon Kumar, "Stability of Holes in Granular Raft" (2025). All Theses. 4463.
https://open.clemson.edu/all_theses/4463