On the structure of nanoparticle clusters: effects of long-range interactions
R. Kamphorst (TU Delft - ChemE/Product and Process Engineering)
M.F. Theisen (Student TU Delft)
Ankur Deep Bordoloi (TU Delft - ChemE/Product and Process Engineering)
Samir Salameh (FH Münster University of Applied Sciences)
GMH Meesters (TU Delft - ChemE/Product and Process Engineering)
JR Van Ommen (TU Delft - ChemE/Product and Process Engineering)
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Abstract
The fractal structure of aggregates consisting of primary nanoparticles naturally arises during their synthesis. While typically considered to be a fully stochastic process, we suspect long-range interactions, in particular van der Waals forces, to induce an active pull on particles, altering the clustering process. Using an off-grid 3D model, we show that an active pull decreases the density and fractal dimension of formed clusters. These findings could not be reproduced by 2D models, which underestimate screening effects. Additionally, we determined the range within which van der Waals forces dominate the aggregation process.
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