Abstract
Abstract The addition of a non-adsorbing polymer (polydimethylsiloxane) to dispersions of hydrophobic silica particles in cyclohexane induces phase separation by means of the depletion interaction. The strength and range of the weak, attractive potential, in this otherwise hard sphere system, may be independently controlled by means of the free polymer concentration and molecular weight, respectively. Depending on the particle size and molecular weight of the polymer, as well as the particle number concentration, analogues of the molecular gas/liquid, gas/solid and liquid/solid phase transitions may each be observed, in accordance with the predictions of recent statistical mechanical theories.
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.
