Generalized inverse patchy colloid model

TL;DR

This paper extends the inverse patchy colloid model to accommodate particles with complex and diverse surface charge patterns, providing a versatile framework for modeling their interactions.

Contribution

It introduces a generalized, coarse-grained pair interaction model for particles with arbitrary patch configurations based on a Debye-Hückel approach.

Findings

Applicable to particles with multiple and differently charged patches

Demonstrates versatility with various patch configurations

Provides a unified framework for complex colloid surface patterns

Abstract

We generalize the inverse patchy colloid model that was originally developed for heterogeneously charged particles with two identical polar patches and an oppositely charged equator to a model that can have a considerably richer surface pattern. Based on a Debye-Hueckel framework, we propose a coarse-grained description of the effective pair interactions that is applicable to particles with an arbitrary patch decoration. We demonstrate the versatility of this approach by applying it to models with (i) two differently charged and/or sized patches, and (ii) three, possibly different patches.