Aggregation of dipolar colloidal particles: Geometric effects

Abstract

To understand the importance of confinement and the influence of translational degrees of freedom on aggregation of dipolar colloidal particles, we calculate numerically-exact values for the mean encounter time for two nonspherically symmetric molecules to form a two-molecule cluster, regarded here as a precursor to aggregation. A lattice model is formulated in which the asymmetry of the molecules is accounted for by representing each as a "dimer" in the sense that each molecule is specified to occupy two adjacent lattice sites. The two dimers undergo simultaneous translation, and the mean times for their encounter are determined. Exact numerical results are obtained via application of the theory of finite Markov processes. The results allow one to examine in a detailed way the interplay among such factors as geometrical confinement, system size, translational motion, and specific orientational effects in influencing the aggregation event. The results are compared with previously reported theoretical predictions and experiments on the behavior of dipolar colloidal particles in the presence of an applied magnetic field.