Colloidal glass transition: Beyond mode-coupling theory

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new theoretical framework for understanding the dynamics of colloidal suspensions and the colloidal glass transition, extending beyond traditional mode-coupling theory by deriving a closed set of equations.

Contribution

It develops a novel theory based on memory functions and pair-density correlations, providing a more comprehensive description of the colloidal glass transition.

Findings

Predicts an ergodicity breaking transition at higher densities than mode-coupling theory

Derives a formal exact equation for the pair-density correlation function

Provides a closed set of equations for density and memory functions

Abstract

A new theory for dynamics of concentrated colloidal suspensions and the colloidal glass transition is proposed. The starting point is the memory function representation of the density correlation function. The memory function can be expressed in terms of a time-dependent pair-density correlation function. An exact, formal equation of motion for this function is derived and a factorization approximation is applied to its evolution operator. In this way a closed set of equations for the density correlation function and the memory function is obtained. The theory predicts an ergodicity breaking transition similar to that predicted by the mode-coupling theory, but at a higher density.