vbid/9783319045559

Description

This thesis explores the dispersion stability, microstructure and phase transitions involved in the nanoclay system.�It describes the recently discovered formation of colloidal gels via two routes: the first is through phase separation and second is by equilibrium gelation and includes the first reported experimental observation of a system with high aspect ratio nanodiscs. The phase behavior of anisotropic nanodiscs of different aspect ratio in their individual and mixed states in aqueous and hydrophobic media�is investigated. Distinct phase separation, equilibrium fluid and equilibrium gel phases�are observed in nanoclay dispersions with extensive aging.�The work then�explores solution behavior, gelation kinetics, aging dynamics and temperature-induced ordering in the individual and mixed states of these discotic colloids. Anisotropic ordering dynamics induced by a water-air interface, waiting time and temperature in these dispersions were studied in great detail along with aggregation behavior of nanoplatelets in hydrophobic environment of alcohol solutions.Typham this is the title: Dispersion Stability, Microstructure and Phase Transition of Anisotropic Nanodiscs