Analysis of the contact angle

Contact angle analysis is an essential method for characterizing the interactions between a liquid and a solid surface. It allows us to determine the degree of hydrophilicity or hydrophobicity of a material by measuring the angle formed by a droplet deposited on its surface. This parameter is crucial for optimizing adhesion, wettability, surface treatment, material functionalization, and the performance of coatings in industrial sectors.

Principle of goniometrics

The technique relies on measuring the angle formed between a droplet and the material surface. The smaller the angle, the more hydrophilic and easily wettable the surface. Conversely, a large angle characterizes a hydrophobic or poorly wettable surface. This analysis can be performed in static mode (angle measured immediately after deposition) or in dynamic mode (angles of advance and retreat).
Goniometry is particularly well-suited for evaluating the impact of a surface treatment, detecting formulation defects, validating an industrial process, or controlling the quality of a coating.

Industrial applications

Contact angle analysis is used in many fields where surface properties play a key role. In materials and polymers, it allows for the evaluation of material compatibility in a formulation, the optimization of the mechanical strength of an assembly, or the control of the adhesion of a functional layer. In coatings and paints, it helps predict application quality, water resistance, or the performance of a moisture-resistant treatment.
The biomedical and cosmetic industries also use it to study the interaction between a surface and biological fluids, or to evaluate the behavior of polymers used in medical devices. Finally, in the packaging sector, the contact angle helps ensure a material's suitability for printing, bonding, or applying a protective coating.

Matrices and samples analyzed

The analysis is applicable to a wide variety of materials, including: technical coatings, polymers, packaging films, modified surfaces, composite materials, plasma-treated or chemically grafted substrates, functional membranes, biomedical materials, and micro- or nanostructured textured surfaces.
The technique allows for the comparison of different formulations, the monitoring of surface stability over time, and the validation of the performance of a cleaning or packaging process.

Interest in R&D and quality control

The contact angle is a key indicator for guiding industrial choices. In R&D, it allows for the adjustment of formulations, the evaluation of the suitability of a surface treatment, or the testing of new materials. In quality control, it ensures compliance with internal specifications or technical standards.
The analysis is also useful for verifying hydrophobic properties in applications where resistance to humidity, condensation, or runoff is critical. Conversely, high wettability may be desirable for adhesion, ink, or coating applications.

YesWeLab Expertise

YesWeLab relies on a network of partner laboratories selected for their expertise in physical chemistry, materials science, and surface characterization. The majority are ISO 17025 or COFRAC certified or accredited. For each request, we identify the most suitable laboratory based on the material, the level of requirements, the applicable standards, and the associated techniques, such as static or dynamic goniometry.
Our scientific team supports you in defining your needs, interpreting the results, and optimizing your tests. Since 2020, numerous industrial companies, R&D centers, and manufacturers have entrusted us with their analyses to accelerate their development and ensure sound technical decisions. You can submit your samples and track your results directly through our digital platform.

Related analyses of the YesWeLab catalog

Roughness analysis (Ra, Rt, Rq)
Coating durability analysis
Material characterization (SEM, XRD)
Porosity and specific surface area (BET)
Mechanical testing: tensile, compression, flexural
Raman spectroscopy
FTIR spectroscopy for polymer surface analysis