Abstract
Since the early observation of nematic phases of disc-like clay colloids byLangmuir in 1938, the phase behaviour of such systems has resisted theoreticalunderstanding. The main reason is that there is no satisfactory generalization forcharged discs of the isotropic DLVO (Derjaguin, Landau, Verwey and Overbeek)potential describing the effective interactions between a pair of spherical colloidsin an electrolyte. In this paper, we show how to construct such a pair potential,incorporating approximately both the non-linear effects of counter-ioncondensation (charge renormalization) and the anisotropy of the chargedplatelets. We discuss the consequences for the phase behaviour of laponitedispersions (thin discs of 30 nm diameter and 1 nm thickness), and we presentan investigation into the mesostructure via Monte Carlo simulations.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
