Why measure contact angle?

Precise characterization of solid material surfaces and fluid interfaces plays a vital role in research, innovation and product development in many industrial and academic areas. Measurement of contact angles and surface/interfacial tensions provides a better understanding of the interactions between phases, regardless of whether they are gas, liquid or solid. The surface/interfacial tension of multiphase liquid systems provides essential information about the stability of foams, emulsions, dispersions, gels, aerosols etc. The wettability and surface energy of solid surfaces plays an important role in many processes, such as controlled capillary action, spreading of coatings, adhesion and absorption into porous solids to name just a few. Contact angle and surface / interfacial tension measurement is a rapid and accurate characterization tool for emerging state-of-the-art surface engineering techniques.