Anisotropic and Magnetic Microparticles: Preparation and Out-of-Equilibrium Assembly

Abstract

Colloidal particles, essential building blocks known since the 1800s, continue to captivate researchers. This thesis delves into their significance by investigating anisotropic particle design, shape-driven self-assembly, and enhancing magnetic colloids' role as active swimmers. It also introduces innovative methods for crafting anisotropic composite magnetic microparticles. The first half of the thesis focuses on self-assembling colloidal superballs, revealing arrangements through small-angle x-ray scattering during droplet evaporation. Incorporating permanent magnetic superballs adds complexity, unveiling dipole-induced structures. Magnetic field effects on assembly are also observed, offering insights into tunable macroscopic colloidal assembly formation. Furthermore, the work aims to improve photocatalytic hematite microparticles, essential for applications like self-propelled motion. Here, calcination substantially heightens their activity. Lastly, diverse techniques for crafting anisotropic composite magnetic microparticles are explored, concluding with future prospects in this dynamic field of soft matter.