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Dynamical Density Functional Theory for the Drying and Stratification of Binary Colloidal Dispersions
Boshen He1, Ignacio Martin-Fabiani1, Roland Roth2
1Department of Materials, Loughborough University, Loughborough LE11 3TU, United Kingdom.
This study models colloidal film drying, revealing stratification in dried films based on evaporation rate and particle concentration. The model accurately predicts structures like small-on-top films, including particle adsorption effects.
Area of Science:
- Colloid and Surface Science
- Materials Science
- Statistical Mechanics
Background:
- Colloidal films are crucial in various applications.
- Understanding the drying process is key to controlling film structure.
- Previous studies relied on experiments and simulations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a theoretical model for colloidal film drying.
- To investigate the stratification of binary hard-sphere colloid mixtures.
- To incorporate particle adsorption effects at interfaces.
Main Methods:
- Dynamical density functional theory (DDFT) based model.
- Simulation of hard-sphere colloids of two different sizes.
- Analysis of solvent evaporation rates and initial concentrations.
Main Results:
- Observed varying degrees of stratification in dried films.
- Successfully predicted known structures, including small-on-top films.
- Demonstrated the influence of particle adsorption on film morphology.
Conclusions:
- The DDFT model provides a robust framework for studying colloidal film drying.
- Stratification is controllable via evaporation rate and composition.
- Particle adsorption plays a significant role in final film structure.
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