An experimental design for the investigation of water repellent property of candle soot particles

The mechanistic aspect of candle soot particles under controlled atmosphere has been reported. The soot particles were characterized using Fourier transformation Infrared Spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, Transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Hydrophobicity of the candle soot particles was confirmed from the presence of C H group which enhances water repellency and can be used as filler material for fabrication of superhydrophobic coatings. The layered soot particle on the glass slide exhibits maximum water contact angle of 168 degrees. Roughness of soot particle and various hydrophobic groups involved for obtaining superhydrophobicity were exposed. The Raman spectrum of soot particles revealed the presence of disorder graphene which was confirmed from appearance of D1 band. The agglomeration of candle soot particles has been discussed by measuring fractal dimension (D-f) of the particles. The in-depth investigation for bringing the mechanism of formation of soot particle inside the flame reveals the inception of the first particles, growth of soot particles, particle coalescence, agglomeration and oxidation. Here, we have found that the mechanism of particle formation in candle flame involves various steps, in which the sintering as well as coalescence/collision process plays a major role. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.