An experimental determination of the stress-microstructure relationship insemi-concentrated fiber suspensions

The relationship between the stress and the fiber orientation distribution in semi-dilute (nL(3) >> 1, nL(2)d < 1) and semi-concentrated (nL(2)d > 1) fiber suspensions was investigated. Here, n is the fiber number density, L the length, and d is the diameter. A highly viscous, index-matched suspensi on was developed to permit measurements of both the microstructure and rheo logy using the same suspension. By removing the ambiguity of comparing data taken using different suspending fluids and fibers, a more accurate evalua tion of available stress-structure models was made possible. The measured period of rotation and the distribution among Jeffery orbits w ere compared to the results of a theory for hydrodynamic fiber interactions and a simulation incorporating mechanical, contacts. At low concentrations , the period increased above the dilute, Jeffery value. As the fiber loadin g was increased, the period peaked and decreased to approach the dilute res ult. The distribution of orbits shifted slightly towards the vorticity axis with increasing concentration. The inclusion of a nematic potential in the hydrodynamic theory provided a possible explanation for the decrease in th e period of rotation. Measurements of the viscosity and first normal stress differences of the sa me suspensions were compared to theoretical predictions based on the orient ation results. The measured viscosity was in good agreement with the mechan ical contact simulation results but was much larger than predicted by hydro dynamic theories. The high viscosity and the measurement of significant fir st normal stress differences are suggestive of an enhanced stress resulting from the presence of fiber-fiber contacts. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.