Time Evolution of the Elastic Properties of Aqueous Foam

Abstract

We have measured the shear modulus of three-dimensional aqueous foam under a small oscillating stress. The foam structure has also been characterized by measurements of the optical transmission. Each of these physical properties depends on a characteristic length, related to the bubble size distribution. We have shown that both lengths follow the same evolution as a function of foam age. They grow according to a parabolic law, in agreement with theoretical predictions.