DataPhysics – DCAT – Dynamic contact angle measuring devices and tensiometer

The dynamic contact angle measuring devices and tensiometer of the DCAT series are universal measuring devices for the force-based measurement of interfacial parameters and phenomena.

Surface tension acts to contract and minimise any liquid surface. If a surface is being enlarged by the formation of a liquid lamella, as a test body, such as a Wilhelmy plate or Du Noüy ring, is in contact with it, the surface tension exerts a tensile force that can be measured. Within a tensiometer this force is measured by a high precision weighing system and, hence, the surface tension of the liquid can be calculated.

Using a tensiometer, also the interfacial tension between two liquids can be measured with the help of a test body. Since tensiometry is based on force measurements it is – in contrast to the optical analysis of pendant drops – not necessary that one of the liquids is transparent or that the refractive index differs between the two liquids. Therefore, tensiometry is in many cases a handy alternative to the optical measurement of surface and interfacial tensions.