Water has the lowest tensile strength of any liquid. The tensile strength of water is significantly less than theoretical predictions. This means that it can be stretched to a certain point without breaking, but far below its predicted strength. The exact value of the tensile strength of water is unknown, however it has been studied and some general conclusions can be made.

The Measured Tensile Strength of Water

Research from 1979 found that the measured tensile strength of water was significantly less than theoretical predictions. This was attributed to the destabilization of cavitation nuclei by the liquid’s surface tension. The exact value of the tensile strength of water is not known, however it is believed to be around 10-12 mN/m.

Water’s Tensile Strength Measured Using an Optofluidic Chip

In 2015, research used an optofluidic chip to measure the tensile strength of water for the first time. The chip enabled the displacement of air and water within a chamber, by controlling two laser beams to create a stable air-water interface. This allowed the calculation of water’s tensile strength, which was found to be 9 mN/m, close to the previously estimated value.

Cavitation Nuclei and Tensile Strength of Water

Research from 2018 suggested that cavitation nuclei are stabilized by liquefaction of the gas that is necessary to maintain the activity of the surface forces. This proposed liquefaction of the gas in pure water could drastically increase the tensile strength of the water, however this idea has yet to be tested.

Conclusion

Overall, it is generally accepted that the tensile strength of water is significantly lower than theoretical predictions. This is believed to be around 10-12 mN/m due to the destabilization of cavitation nuclei by the liquid’s surface tension. Research is still ongoing to try to find ways to increase the tensile strength of water.