The Krüss K100 Force Tensiometer measures surface tension and interfacial tension by quantifying the force required to detach a probe (typically a ring, plate, or rod) from the liquid surface or interface. The tension is calculated based on the force exerted by the surface or interface as the probe is pulled away. This is particularly useful for analyzing wetting properties, critical micelle concentration (CMC), and interfacial interactions, especially in applications like surfactant studies.
The measurement involves two primary steps:
Probe Immersion: A probe is immersed into the liquid or at the interface between two phases (e.g., air-liquid or liquid-liquid).
Force Measurement: The probe is slowly pulled away, and the force required to overcome the surface tension is measured. The force is converted into a surface or interfacial tension value.