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Updated: Feb 10, 2026
09:26
Synthesis and Characterization of Supramolecular Colloids
Published on: April 22, 2016
10.5K
Growth of two-dimensional decagonal colloidal quasicrystals
M Martinsons1, M Schmiedeberg1
1Institut für Theoretische Physik I, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Staudtstraße 7, 91058 Erlangen, Germany.
Summary
This study uses Brownian dynamics simulations to explore quasicrystal growth. Results show temperature and particle addition rate influence quasicrystalline order and defect formation.
Area of Science:
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Materials Science
- Statistical Mechanics
Background:
- Quasicrystal growth is more complex than periodic crystal growth.
- Quasicrystals exhibit long-range order without translational symmetry.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate quasicrystal growth dynamics using simulations.
- Quantify the influence of temperature and particle deposition rate on quasicrystal formation.
- Analyze defects and surface morphology in grown quasicrystalline structures.
Main Methods:
- Two-dimensional Brownian dynamics simulations.
- Colloidal particles interacting via an isotropic pair potential with incommensurate lengths.
- Sequential particle deposition on a surface.
Main Results:
- Quasicrystalline order is dependent on temperature and particle addition rate.
- Defects such as local triangular order and gaps were observed.
- Grown structures exhibit surfaces aligned with quasicrystal symmetry axes.
- Phasonic flips, a type of particle rearrangement, were identified and decrease with distance from the surface.
Conclusions:
- Simulation parameters significantly affect quasicrystal formation and order.
- Understanding defects and phasonic flips is crucial for controlling quasicrystal growth.
- The study provides insights into the fundamental mechanisms governing quasicrystal self-assembly.
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