Analysis of surface tension driven leveling in viscoelastic films

We study the surface tension driven leveling of surface irregularities in viscoelastic films deposited on a flat surface. Analytical results are presented for the generalized Maxwell model in the limit of infinitesimal surface disturbances. The results show that elasticity retards the leveling process. In some cases, the retardation effect is dramatic. Keunings' finite element algorithm for solving viscoelastic moving boundary problems is used to analyze the case of finite-amplitude surface disturbances. Results for an Oldroyd B fluid display significant elastic effects which are consistent with the asymptotic predictions.