Forces, charges, and light emission during the rupture of adhesive contacts

Abstract

Pulling forces and light emission have been recorded simultaneously while rupturing the contact between 116 in. balls and adhesive tape. The force curve reveals the formation of glue filaments between the tape and the balls. Multiple light flashes originating in air discharge from the rupturing contact indicate the number of filaments. The charge separation in the moment of rupture has been evaluated by comparison with the light intensity of electric microgap discharges. The charge density is found to be one or two magnitudes larger than previously reported residual contact electrification for adhesive tape. © 2007 American Institute of Physics.