A Novel Method for Evaluating Foam Properties

Abstract

We report results of foamability measured on a new setup in a novel way. Of the polydispersed foam generated during the process, the setup separates the fine bubbles from the coarse ones. The rate of fine foam volume generation (V) determined at each surfactant concentration serves as a criterion to compare foamability of surfactants. Three surfactants—SLS, Triton X‐100, and Brij 58—are examined on the new setup and the results are discussed in terms of effectiveness and efficiency. Triton X‐100 was found to be the most efficient foamer, while SLS was the most effective foamer. The results were compared with measurements employing the Ross Miles method (ASTM certified) for the three surfactants in the same concentration range. Our method gives an amplified difference in the foaming efficiencies for the three surfactants when compared with the Ross Miles method.

Keywords:

• Foamability
• SLS
• Triton X‐100
• Brij 58
• Ross Miles method