Solids surface characterization using computational algorithms: A case study for talc fillers

Abstract The solid surface characterization using contact angle measurement is complicated and time-consuming. In this work, two computational algorithms in MATLAB and C were developed and validated by the surface properties determination of talc filler (TCF) and colored talc filler (CTCF). The results indicated that, the surface free energy parameters calculated using the two algorithms for both samples were consistent. As compared to the MATLAB function, the assembly statements of C function were longer, although the unknowns can be directly obtained using this toolbox. The γ S D values determined by the Owens-Wendt-Kaelble (OWK), van Oss-Chaudhury-Good (vOCG) and Wu methods were consistent and contributed a major part of the γ S T . Compared to γ S D , the γ S SP component contributed less to γ S T , implying a lower polarity for both samples. The lower γ S D and γ S SP for CTCF added up to a lower γ S T value, which could reduce filler particle-particle interactions. The mechanical properties study of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) matrix filled with the two fillers showed that the incorporation of them played mainly a reinforcing role, and a better performance for CTCF was observed.