Structuring of solute particles within liquid films

When drying waterborne blends of large and small particles, an osmotic pressure develops that drives the large particles away from the film surface. This results in a stratified coating, with a layer of small particles on top and another of large particles below. However, existing models don't quite agree with the experiments as they fail to provide a complete description of the system thermodynamics.
The aim of the project is to develop a model for pattern formation phenomena in binary colloidal systems that includes hydrodynamic interactions, by generalizing the Dynamical Density Functional Theory of monodisperse colloids. The numerical solution of the model will allow us to address hydrodynamics-assisted phenomena in complex systems. The PhD candidate will take active part in both the development of the model and its numerical implementation, engaging actively with a second experimental student that will be performing the corresponding experiments in the laboratory.