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Paper
Precursor film profiles of spreading liquid drops
Abstract
We present the first precise characterization of the profile of the precursor films which progressively develop ahead of the macroscopic edge of a spreading liquid drop. Experiments are performed on a model system (nonvolatile high-molecular-weight polydimethylsiloxane on smooth silicon wafers), using an ellipsometer with a high spatial resolution. Both the film profile and its evolution with time are in good qualitative agreement with recent models which include long-range force effects. Clear quantitative discrepancies may reveal specific polymeric effects. © 1988 The American Physical Society.