Topographic Control of Order in Quasi-2D Granular Phase Transitions
J G Downs1, N D Smith1, K K Mandadapu2,3
1School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, United Kingdom.
Physical Review Letters
|January 14, 2022
Summary
Surface topography transforms 2D phase transitions in granular fluids. This granular system exhibits interfacial tension, altering continuous transitions to first-order liquid-solid ones, influencing phase separation.
Area of Science:
- Physics
- Materials Science
- Soft Matter Physics
Background:
- Granular materials exhibit complex phase behaviors.
- Understanding 2D phase transitions is crucial for materials science.
- Surface topography can influence material properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To experimentally investigate 2D phase transitions in quasi-2D granular fluids.
- To explore the effect of surface topography on granular phase behavior.
- To analyze interfacial tension and order parameters.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing a quasi-2D granular fluid system.
- Employing a surface decorated with periodic dimples.
- Measuring orientational and translational order parameters and susceptibilities.
Main Results:
- Observed interfacial tension between coexisting granular liquid and crystal phases.
- Surface topography altered the phase transition from continuous to first-order liquid-solid.
- Boundary inelasticity and geometry controlled wetting behavior.
Conclusions:
- Surface topography significantly impacts granular phase transition order.
- Order-induced wetting determines spatial separation of coexisting granular phases.
- Findings offer insights into controlling granular material behavior.
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