Prediction of coupled menisci shapes by Young-Laplace equation and the resultant variability in capillary retention.

This paper shows how 2 coupled Young-Laplace equations can be solved to predict the shapes of two coupled menisci formed in a capillary system. Experiments are performed, which demonstrate that the equilibrium volume of liquid retained in a vertical capillary, can be variable, even when all the properties of the system are invariant. This variability in liquid retention also leads to different equilibrium shapes of the top and bottom menisci. A coupled form of the Young-Laplace equation is solved to predict the two coupled menisci shapes. The curvature of the top meniscus is fitted to the experimentally recorded meniscus shape. The coupled Young-Laplace equation solution is used to predict the shape of the bottom meniscus. The shape of the bottom meniscus thus obtained, is shown to match the experimentally recorded bottom meniscus shape reasonably well. This observed coupling of the menisci has a significant impact on some porosimetric techniques which are based on liquid extrusion and explains why the volume of liquid that can be retained in a capillary can vary, under invariant conditions. Retention of liquids in capillaries is of interest in several applications like fabric wash.