Work

On the build-up of effective hyperuniformity from large globular colloidal aggregates

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: A simple three-dimensional model of a fluid whose constituent particles interact via a short range attractive and long range repulsive potential is used to model the aggregation into large spherical-like clusters made up of hundreds of particles. The model can be thought of as a straightforward rendition of colloid flocculation into large spherical aggregates. We illustrate how temperature and particle density influence the cluster size distribution and affect inter- and intra-cluster dynamics. The system is shown to exhibit two well separated length and time scales, which can be tuned by the balance between repulsive and attractive forces. Interestingly, cluster aggregates at moderate/low temperatures approach a cluster glassy phase, whereas cluster particles retain a local liquid-like structure. These states present a strong suppression of density fluctuations for a significant range of relatively large wavelengths, meeting the criterion of effective disordered hyperuniform materials as far as the intercluster structure is concerned.

Source: The Journal of Chemical Physics

DOI: 10.1063/5.0249688

Authors: Antonio Díaz-Pozuelo, Diego González-Salgado, Enrique Lomba

Institutions: Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Instituto de Química Física Blas Cabrera, Universidade de Vigo, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela

Language: English

Topic: Material Dynamics and Properties

Subfield: Materials Chemistry

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funders: European Regional Development Fund, Agencia Estatal de Investigación

Awards: G464105488, G687244432, G8977598707