Scattering techniques applied to reveal internal structure and orientational behaviour of colloidal particles

Condensed Matter lunchtime seminar

Scattering techniques applied to reveal internal structure and orientational behaviour of colloidal particles

  • Event time: 1:00pm
  • Event date: 10th May 2010
  • Speaker: Mathias Reufer (University of Edinburgh)
  • Location: Room 2511,

Event details

This talk covers the two main projects of my PhD, done in the group of Peter Schurtenberger in Fribourg (Switzerland). In the first part we investigate a system of particles made of thermosensitive microgel particles (PNIPAM) dispersed in water. We study the temperature dependent density profiles of the microgel particles. The gained insight allows us to develop a novel model that describes the mechanical properties of the quenched solid phase of microgel particles.

The second part deals with anisotropic magnetic core-shell particles. A detailed characterization of the magnetic properties of these particles addresses the question how the anisotropic particle shape and the silica coating affect the magnetic properties of the particles. Furthermore, we study dispersed particles by scattering methods to reveal particle dimensions, silica shell thickness and porosity. By applying an external magnetic field, the dispersed particle align with the field, and the resulting anisotropic scattering pattern allows us to study the orientation behavior of the particles. Finally, we study the dynamics of dispersed particles in a magnetic field at different concentrations. When aligned in a field, the dynamics of a system of dispersed particles becomes anisotropic due to the anisotropic particle shape.

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.