Work

Self-Diffusion of Particles in Complex Fluids: Temporary Cages and Permanent Barriers

Year: 2008

Type: article

Abstract: We study self-diffusion in complex fluids within dynamic density functional theory and explicitly account for the coupling to the fluctuating background. Applying the formalism to nematic and smectic liquid crystals, we find the temporary cages formed by neighboring particles to compete with permanent barriers in nonuniform systems, resulting in non-Gaussian diffusive motion that in different directions becomes correlated. Qualitative agreement with recent experiments demonstrates the importance of explicitly dealing with time-dependent self-consistent molecular fields.

Source: Physical Review Letters

DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.101.215901

Authors: Markus Bier, René van Roij, Marjolein Dijkstra, Paul van der Schoot

Institutions: Utrecht University, Eindhoven University of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Liquid Crystal Research Advancements

Subfield: Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funders: Johns Hopkins University, Stichting voor Fundamenteel Onderzoek der Materie, Nederlandse Organisatie voor Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek

OpenAlex ID: W2106912964

FWCI: 1.398

Cites: 13

Cited by: 53

Related to: 10