Prof. Frank Scheffold
Expertise | Experimental Techniques Platform | Synthesis Platform | Theory and Simulation Platform |
---|---|---|---|
NA 1 - Colloidal Composites, Gels and Glasses | X | ||
NA 2 - Self-assembling and Biomimetic Systems | X | ||
NA 4 - Polymer Based Complex Systems | X |
We research the optical properties of complex systems, dynamic light scattering, and diffuse light propagation, the dynamics, aggregation and phase behavior of colloidal systems and the fabrication and characterization of soft materials. Controlled assembly of small particles, droplets or bubbles allows us to study “atomic” motion and structure in real-time in systems ranging from simple liquids to crystals, glasses, and jammed phases. In our laboratory, we study the dynamics of dense colloidal assemblies and the transition to an amorphous solid state. We are also interested in how the interplay between order and disorder controls the optical properties of dielectric materials, and the way optical forces can be used to manipulate small particles.