Linear stability theory model for finger formation in asymmetric membranes

摘要: Abstract Various features of asymmetric membrane morphology are studied via a linear stability theory model which is corroborated by experimental studies. This concerns the formation spatial structures in stationary liquid layer containing nonvolatile and volatile component; component assumed to undergo unsteady-state, one-dimensional mass transfer into an adjacent immiscible inviscid phase. The system predicted be unstable whenever random perturbations interface result lowering local interfacial tension, due very steep concentration profiles components near interface. When applied description precipitating polymer/solvent systems, predicts spacing largest-scale 4.2 times final thickness. corroborates well with observations finger cross-sections membranes. explains qualitatively both small-scale fingers nodules observed many