What does thixotropy mean?
Thixotropy refers to the property of certain fluids that exhibit a decrease in viscosity when subjected to shear stress, such as agitation or shaking, and an increase in viscosity when the stress is removed. This phenomenon is commonly observed in complex fluids, including suspensions, gels, and some types of paints and coatings. Thixotropy is an important property in various industrial applications, such as drilling, pumping, and spraying, as it can significantly affect the fluid's behavior and performance. Understanding thixotropy is crucial for optimizing the formulation and processing of these materials.
nounThe property of a fluid that becomes less viscous and more fluid when agitated or shaken and more viscous when left still.
- The property of a fluid that exhibits decreased viscosity when subjected to shear stress and increased viscosity when the stress is removed.
- A phenomenon observed in certain complex fluids, such as suspensions and gels.
"The engineer studied the thixotropy of the new paint mixture to ensure it would flow smoothly through the spray nozzle."
"The thixotropy of the drilling mud allowed it to flow easily through the drill pipe but still maintain its shape in the borehole."
"The researcher investigated the thixotropy of the cosmetic cream to improve its texture and stability."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of thixotropy
The term 'thixotropy' was coined in 1922 by the German chemist Wolfgang Ostwald, derived from the Greek words 'thixis,' meaning 'touch' or 'handling,' and 'tropy,' meaning 'change.' The concept of thixotropy has since been extensively studied and applied in various fields, including chemistry, physics, and engineering.
Usage notes
This term is primarily used in the fields of chemistry, physics, and engineering to describe the behavior of complex fluids.