From Double Colloidal Networks to Core-Shell and Mixed Composites through Sequential Gelation

TL;DR

This study uses mesoscale simulations to explore how sequential gelation in two-component colloidal systems can create diverse network structures, including double networks and core-shell composites, by controlling interactions and timing.

Contribution

It demonstrates the potential to design complex colloidal networks through sequential gelation and interaction tuning, expanding understanding of multicomponent gel formation.

Findings

Different network structures can be achieved by controlling interspecies interactions.

Sequential gelation enables creation of core-shell and mixed composite colloidal structures.

Temporal control influences the heterogeneity and coarseness of the resulting networks.

Abstract

Multicomponent gel systems have garnered much interest due to their compelling mechanical properties in the past decade. Yet, some mechanisms associated with multicomponent gels, such as sequential gelation, have been explored primarily in the context of chemical nonreversible polymeric and protein gels than in physical reversible colloidal ones. In this study, we use mesoscale simulation techniques to model the sequential gelation of two-component colloidal systems whose components' interspecies and intraspecies electrostatic interactions can be modified independently. We show that by simply leveraging temporal control and interspecies interactions, we can construct markedly different networks; from double networks to mixed and core-shell composite structures of varying coarseness and heterogeneity natures. These findings present a compelling case for further exploration of multicomponent colloidal systems.