Temperature-Driven Dynamics of Small Spherical Particle Adhesion on Submerged Substrates: Mechanisms and Interfacial Interactions

Abstract

Understanding the adhesion dynamics of small spherical particles on submerged substrates is crucial for various applications in colloidal science, materials engineering, and industrial processes. This study investigates the force required to initiate the rolling motion of glass spheres on an inclined glass surface in water and ethanol, examining the effect of temperature on this force. The results confirm the presence of van der Waals attractions between the spheres and the substrate, which are weakened by thermal energy. As temperature increased, the liquid matrices expanded, reducing density while decreasing the angle of inclination needed for particle motion. This reduction was attributed to a decrease in the coefficient of friction with rising temperature. The Hamaker coefficient, derived from the experimental data, ranged from 1.986 × 10⁻¹⁵ to 5.296 × 10⁻¹⁵ mJ/m² in water and 2.262 × 10⁻¹⁵ to 5.278 × 10⁻¹⁵ mJ/m² in ethanol, suggest agreement with literature values and showing a tendency to increase with temperature. Similarly, the coefficient of friction decreased from 0.0680 to 0.0400 in water and from 0.0480 to 0.0326 in ethanol, further supports the role of thermal energy in modifying interfacial interactions. These findings provide insights into the thermally driven adhesion mechanisms of submerged particles, with implications for optimizing material handling, coating technologies, and microfluidic systems