A possible key role of hydrodynamic interactions in colloidal gelation

Condensed Matter lunchtime seminar

A possible key role of hydrodynamic interactions in colloidal gelation

  • Event time: 1:00pm
  • Event date: 26th November 2012
  • Speaker: Akira Furukawa (University of Tokyo)
  • Location: Room 2511,

Event details

Colloidal gelation is caused by the formation of a percolated network of colloidal particles suspended in a liquid. Thus far the major transport process leading to gelation has been believed to be the Brownian diffusion of particles. Contrary to this common belief, we reveal by numerical simulations that many-body hydrodynamic interactions between colloidal particles also play an essential role in gelation: They significantly promote gelation, or lower the colloid volume fraction threshold for percolation, as compared to their absence. We find that the incompressible nature of a liquid component and the resulting self-organization of hydrodynamic flow with a transverse (rotational) character are responsible for this enhancement of network-forming ability.

About Condensed Matter lunchtime seminars

This is a weekly series of informal talks given primarily by members of the institute of condensed matter and complex systems, but is also open to members of other groups and external visitors. The aim of the series is to promote discussion and learning of various topics at a level suitable to the broad background of the group. Everyone is welcome to attend..

Find out more about Condensed Matter lunchtime seminars.