Paper
Pairing-specific microstructure in depletion gels of bidisperse colloids
We report the ensemble-averaged and pairing-specific network microstructure formed by short-range depletion attractions in bidisperse hard sphere-like colloidal systems.
Paper
Effective patchiness from critical points of a coarse-grained protein model with explicit shape and charge anisotropy
Critical points of an anisotropic, coarse-grained protein model are used to detemine an “effective patchiness” by comparison to the Kern–Frenkel patchy model.
Paper
Quasi-two-dimensional dispersions of Brownian particles with competitive interactions: phase behavior and structural properties
Langevin dynamics simulations reveal that quasi-2D Brownian particles with competitive short-range attractive and long-range repulsive interactions exhibit hexagonal ordering and double-stranded cluster morphologies as temperature and density vary.
Paper
Phase behavior of binary mixtures of hollow and regular microgels
Hollow microgels can suppress the formation of colloidal crystals at low size polydispersity due to their high deformability and capacity to buckle.
Cybloids – creation and control of cybernetic colloids
We present colloidal particles with freely selectable properties by external programming via a feedback loop. Here, the feedback potential depends on the past particle position(s) resulting in self-propulsion and self-organization into crystals.
Paper
Core–shell nanogels: the effects of morphology, electro- and magnetostatic interactions
We study the influence of core–shell morphology on the structural characteristics of nanogels.
Paper
Curvature induces and enhances transport of spinning colloids through narrow channels
Curvature in a microfluidic channel can be used to induce and enhance the propulsion of magnetically driven microscopic rotors.
Paper
Computational investigation of the effects of polymer grafting on the effective interaction between silica nanoparticles in water
Altering solvent-mediated effective interaction between silica nanoparticles in water through polymer grafting.
Paper
Elucidating the role of physicochemical interactions on gel rheology
Bond kinetics and network restructuring in gels control their yield transition and thixotropic recovery.
About this collection
The issue aims to collect outstanding contributions in the areas of colloidal stability, dynamics under external fields, and the behaviour of complex colloidal dispersions. We welcome experimental, theoretical, and computational studies that advance our understanding of colloidal systems, highlighting topics such as phase behaviour, non-equilibrium dynamics, and the interplay between colloidal particles and their surrounding medium, as well as the development of advanced optical and mechanical tools to probe soft matter.