Thixotropy

Name:
Thixotropy
Detailed information:
The ability of certain colloidal gels to liquefy when agitated (as by shaking or ultrasonic vibration) and to return to the gel form when at rest. This is observed in some clays, paints, and printing inks that flow freely on application of slight pressure, as by brushing or rolling. Suspensions of bentonite clay in water display this property, which is desirable in oil-well drilling fluids.See Rheology; Dilatancy.