Anisotropy, multivalency and flexibility-induced effects in colloidal systems

Verweij, R.W. (2021)

Doctoral Thesis

We have studied the impact of particle shape anisotropy, multivalent interactions and flexibility on systems of micron-sized colloidal particles. In short, we have characterized the diffusive properties of anisotropic dumbbell particles near surfaces. Furthermore, by using experiments and simulations, we have uncovered marked flexibility-induces effects in the Brownian motion of reconfigurable colloidal structures. Our work demonstrates the rich dynamics and possibilities for applications of shape-changing colloidal systems. We hope our findings further the study of the diffusivity of flexible objects found in complex mixtures relevant in, for example, the cosmetic, pharmaceutical and food industries, as well as in biological and drug-delivery systems. For example, our results may have implications for understanding both the diffusive behavior and the most likely conformations of macromolecular systems such as polymers, single-stranded DNA and other chain-like molecules.

• Segmental flexibility
• Brownian quasiscallop mode
• Colloid-supported lipid bilayer
• Reconfigurability
• Microparticle

• All authors: Verweij, R.W.
• Supervisor: Kraft, D.J.; Hecke, M.L. van
• Committee: Donev, A.; Kegel, W.K.; Voets, I.K.; Eliel, E.R.; Schmidt, T.
• Qualification: Doctor (dr.)
• Awarding Institution: Leiden Institute of Physics (LION), Faculty of Science, Leiden University
• Date: 2021-05-27
• Title of host publication: Casimir PhD Series
• ISBN (print): 9789085934738
• Name: 2021-07