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Summary:

Researchers at the Raman Research Institute (RRI) in Bengaluru have developed a novel device that allows them to observe the internal behavior of non-Newtonian fluids (like gels and shampoos) when an object moves through them. The device combines a rheometer with in-situ optical imaging, enabling researchers to measure the forces exerted on a probe moving through the fluid while simultaneously visualizing microscopic changes in real-time. This revealed a “sawtooth” pattern of force fluctuation and the formation and snapping of a “wake” behind the probe at higher speeds, indicating chaotic motion. The discovery demonstrates that local structures within the fluid govern its behavior, rather than the bulk properties. This breakthrough can help industries optimize processes involving non-Newtonian fluids, improving efficiency and product consistency.

News Article:

New Device Reveals Hidden Secrets of Everyday Fluids, Promising Industrial Breakthroughs

Bengaluru, November 23, 2025 – Scientists at the Raman Research Institute (RRI) in Bengaluru have unveiled a groundbreaking device that provides unprecedented insight into the behavior of complex fluids, such as gels, shampoos, and industrial solutions. This innovation holds the potential to revolutionize industries ranging from cosmetics to oil extraction, leading to more efficient processes and improved product quality.

The newly developed device combines a traditional rheometer, used to measure fluid flow, with advanced in-situ optical imaging. This unique combination allows researchers to observe, in real-time, how these so-called “non-Newtonian” fluids respond to the movement of objects within them. Unlike simple fluids like water, non-Newtonian fluids exhibit complex internal structures that rearrange themselves when disturbed, affecting how objects move through them.

“Our study highlights the importance of investigating the mechanics of materials over different length scales to understand complex materials for applications and fundamental scientific interests,” said Prof. Sayantan Majumdar, faculty member at RRI, who led the project.

The device revealed that, beyond a certain speed, the force exerted on a moving probe within the fluid fluctuated in a distinct “sawtooth” pattern, indicating chaotic motion. High-speed imaging showed that this pattern was caused by the formation and abrupt snapping of a “wake” behind the probe. The researchers found that this behavior isn’t determined by the overall properties of the fluid, but by tiny, constantly changing clusters within it.

“The design of the custom-built set-up provides the flexibility and freedom to explore many aspects in the context of probe motion to access, measure and reveal the behaviour of complex materials,” said Abhishek Ghadai, PhD scholar at RRI and lead author of the research.

The implications of this research are significant. Industries can now use this technology to fine-tune the properties of fluids used in various processes, leading to:

  • Improved Efficiency: Optimizing the flow of drilling chemicals in the oil sector, for example, can significantly increase extraction rates and reduce energy consumption.
  • Enhanced Product Performance: Cosmetic companies can use the device to develop products that spread more evenly and consistently.
  • Reduced Waste: By understanding how fluids behave under different conditions, companies can design machines and processes that minimize waste and ensure consistent product quality.

The RRI’s breakthrough promises to usher in a new era of understanding and manipulating complex fluids, paving the way for advancements across a wide range of industries.

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