Phase separation transition in liquids and polymers induced by electric field gradients

Gilad Marcus, Yoav Tsori

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

Spatially uniform electric fields have been used to induce instabilities in liquids and polymers, and to orient and deform ordered phases of block-copolymers. Here we discuss the demixing phase transition occurring in liquid mixtures when they are subject to spatially nonuniform fields. Above the critical value of potential, a phase-separation transition occurs, and two coexisting phases appear separated by a sharp interface. Analytical and numerical composition profiles are given, and the interface location as a function of charge or voltage is found. The possible influence of demixing on the stability of suspensions and on inter-colloid interaction is discussed.

Original languageEnglish
Article number041010
JournalJournal of the Physical Society of Japan
Volume78
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Apr 2009

Keywords

  • Electric fields
  • Gradients
  • Liquid mixtures
  • Phase transitions

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Physics and Astronomy

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