Particle Properties and Pickering Foams

Particle-stabilized (i.e. Pickering) foams have potential in various areas ranging from froth flotation of minerals and recovery of rare-earth elements to enhanced oil recovery and gas well deliquification. The wide applicability range of Pickering foams stems from their ability to remain stable under high temperature and high salinity conditions compared to surfactant-stabilized foams. The enhanced stability arises in part from the large desorption energy of particles from the fluid interface, which is dependent on the particle size and its position at the interface. While the impact of various particle attributes on the bulk properties of Pickering foams has been studied, less is known on the roles interfacial characteristics play in the ensuing foam stability. In this presentation, I will review recent findings in our group on how particle attributes such as wettability and surface anisotropy influence the stability and rheology of fluid interfaces. I will discuss the impact of particle surface properties on the interfacial microstructure and flow behavior, and their connection to the performance in resulting Pickering foams.