Tuning thin-film bijels with applied external electric fields

Abstract

The tunability of thin-film bijels using applied external electric fields is explored using a Cahn–Hilliard Langevin dynamics computational model. Dielectric contrast between liquid domains governs liquid domain alignment and was varied in the simulations. Dielectric contrast between colloidal particles and liquid matrix induces dipolar particle interactions and was also varied in the simulations. The study reveals unique internal morphologies including those with through-thickness liquid domains. Significant results include identification of electric field effects on phase evolution and final morphology as well as relevant mechanisms. It was also found that particle chains act as nucleation sites for phase separation. The resultant morphologies were analyzed in terms of particle attachment to phase interface regions as well as the average channel diameter. Electric field effects and mechanisms on morphology are identified and compared with other morphology-tuning parameters such as particle loading and liquid–liquid composition.