Rheological characterization of fluids relevant to process engineering

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Rheology is defined as the science of the deformation and flow of matter which implies that rheology in some form or another enters almost every study of material properties. Rheological measurements have become standard techniques in both industrial and academic research and find wide application in engineering. The challenge of relating molecular structure or morphology to the macroscopic rheological properties of materials is fundamentally important, whether for polymer solutions, fermentation broth suspensions, slurries, oil or composites. Meeting this challenge deepens our understanding of rheological properties, guides improvements in processing technology and helps us produce better materials for specific applications. This is exactly the objective that is pursued in the seven research projects that are described in this application.The present research proposal is therefore aimed at acquiring a rheometer to perform rheological analyses of fluids to support seven current research projects: (1) analysis of fermentation broths during the production of cellulase using the microorganism Trichoderma reesei; (2) production of a biopolymer pullulan using Aureobasidium pullulans; (3) fabrication of latex polymer-based pressure sensitive adhesives; (4) characterisation of biodiesel fuel produced from waste oils and animal fats; (5) study the aging of biodiesel; (6) investigate the flow behaviour of thickened tailings on surface; and (7) the study of the biofuel production using fast-growing microalgae.Two universities, Ottawa and Carleton, take part in this research proposal. Six professors participate in one or more of the seven projects, which currently involve 22 students and one postdoctoral fellow.