Formation of Anisotropic Polymer Colloids by Disparate Relaxation Times

Abstract

We show that coupling between a fast and a slow relaxation time causes the spontaneous formation of protrusions in colloids made of cross-linked polymers. The volume of the protrusions can be controlled by adjusting the ratio between the relaxation times. This, in principle, results in particles with levels of anisotropy that can be made "to order".