Non-Newtonian Fluids

Claimed by Kyle Sabell

A non-Newtonian fluid is a specific type of fluid which does not behave in the same manner as regular fluids. The most notable difference in non-Newtonian fluids is that their viscosity is dependent on the shear rate, or the rate that shearing deformation is applied. In a Newtonian fluid, the relationship between the shear rate and force applied can be modeled by a linear curve. Non-Newtonian fluids exhibit a behavior which lacks a straight-line relationship between the shear rate and force applied, meaning that the viscosity of the fluid changes when a force is applied.

This is oobleck, a 50/50 mixture of corn starch and water, while a vibrating force is acting on it.

Significance

Applications

Non-Newtonian fluids have a variety of real-world applications. It has been found that they provide an excellent remedy to potholes, since the stress provided by fast-moving cars would drastically increase the viscosity of the dried fluid, providing a stable driving surface. These fluids also have a place in body armor, specifically bullet-proof vests. In industry, non-Newtonian fluids are often used in hydraulic systems because of they become thicker when a larger force is applied.

A Mathematical Model

The basic behavior of a non-Newtonian fluid can be described with the following equation:

Connectedness

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Examples of Non-Newtonian Fluids

• Ketchup
• Toothpaste
• Starch mixed with water
• Shampoo
• Blood
• Custard
• Paint

See also

• Mass
• Melting Point
• Inertia

Further reading

1. Tropea, Cameron; Yarin, Alexander L.; Foss, John F. (2007). Springer handbook of experimental fluid mechanics. Springer. pp. 661, 676. ISBN 978-3-540-25141-5.

External links

[1]

References

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