Bulk and interfacial properties of binary hard-platelet fluids

Abstract

Interfaces between demixed fluid phases of binary mixtures of hard platelets are investigated using density-functional theory. The corresponding excess free energy functional is calculated within a fundamental measure theory adapted to the Zwanzig model, in which the orientations of the particles of rectangular shape are restricted to three orthogonal orientations. Density and orientational order parameter profiles at interfaces between coexisting phases as well as the interfacial tension are determined. A density inversion, oscillatory density profiles, and a Fisher-Widom line have been found in a mixture of large thin and small thick platelets. The lowest interfacial tension corresponds to the mean bulk orientation of the platelets being parallel to the interface. For a mixture of large and small thin platelets, complete wetting of an isotropic-nematic interface by a second nematic phase is found.