Versitech, Inc.

Zhou Liu

Ho Cheung Shum

Yang Song

Liqiu Wang

Tiantian Kong

A method and apparatus are provided for mixing highly viscous fluids to form a mixture. The mixture is created rapidly and has a high level of uniformity. The mixture is created by utilizing induced viscous fluid folding under the influence of an electric field. The electric field is introduced by connecting a nozzle dispensing the fluids in parallel to a voltage supply and grounding a collection plate located below the nozzle. When a certain voltage is applied the co-flow viscous fluids start to fold because the electric field exerts stress on the surface of the fluids, which results in changes of the geometry and dynamics of the viscous fluids. Control of the electric field provides great control over the mixture.

Method and apparatus for rapid mixing of highly viscous fluids

Methods for preparing all-aqueous emulsions, including stable emulsions or emulsions having high viscosity and/or ultra-low interfacial tension are described. The method includes mixing, combining, or contacting a first electrically charged phase containing a first solute (e.g., dispersed phase) with at least a second phase containing a second solute (e.g., continuous phase). The solutes are incompatible with each other. The electrostatic forces between the two phases induce the formation of droplets of a dispersed phase in a continuous phase. The dispersed and continuous phases contain oppositely charged molecules, such as surfactants or other macromolecules and colloids which stabilize the drops of the dispersed phase. Complex coacervation of the oppositely charged molecules or colloids at the interface of the two aqueous phases results in formation of a membrane or barrier which prevents coalescence or aggregation of the droplets. The membrane also prevents leakage of any encapsulated agents from the droplets.

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Hong Kong, China

Zhou Liu