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 language | English |
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Article number | 041010 |
Journal | Journal of the Physical Society of Japan |
Volume | 78 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 1 Apr 2009 |
Keywords
- Electric fields
- Gradients
- Liquid mixtures
- Phase transitions
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Physics and Astronomy