Date of Graduation

5-2018

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME)

Degree Level

Graduate

Department

Mechanical Engineering

Advisor/Mentor

Millett, Paul C.

Committee Member

Nair, Arun K.

Second Committee Member

Zou, Min

Keywords

Simulation; Spinodal Decomposition; Thin-film

Abstract

Preferential wetting can have a significant impact on the kinetics of phase separation in certain systems. The depletion of the wetting component can simply alter domain growth rates or change the structure entirely. In this thesis, we employ a Cahn-Hilliard model to study the evolution of binary thin-films with symmetric surface wetting. Three possible morphologies were identified: discrete, bicontinuous, and a novel quasi-2D bicontinuous structure in which both phases retain continuity throughout the volume as well as on the center xy plane. Using a continuity factor, regions of film thickness versus blend composition were classified as producing a certain morphology. This region was then extended to further explore the possibilities offered by symmetric surface wetting. This information can guide future researchers to novel morphologies.

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