Influencing colloidal formation with optical traps†
Ifat Jacob,Eitan Edri,Erel Lasnoy,Silvia Piperno,Hagay Shpaisman
Soft Matter Pub Date : 01/03/2017 00:00:00 , DOI:10.1039/C6SM02639G
Abstract

We present a novel concept where optical traps are used to influence an ongoing polymerization process of emulsion droplets. By directed coalescence and partial fusion of intermediate nucleation sites, spherical and elongated colloids with specific dimensions are formed. The strength of this approach lies in its versatility and ease of making various changes to the end product without the need for chemical modifications.

Graphical abstract: Influencing colloidal formation with optical traps