Effect of temperature on foamability using a thermoresponsive polymer

We experimentally examine foam dynamics and foamability using a thermoresponsive polymer, Poly(n-isopropylacrylamide) or PNIPAM. Under a constant gas injection, our results show that temperature significantly affects the foam height produced. A stable foam was observed at room temperature while unstable at temperature above the lower critical solution temperature. Analysis of the foam structure reveals an important increase in the coalescence rate at high temperature, thereby suggesting a change of the air-water interface properties with the temperature. The findings demonstrate the controlling ability of the PNIPAM polymer to produce thermoresponsive foams, offering beneficial applications for foaming processes and mineral flotation.