Measurement Techniques

We use conventional and confocal microscopy, often combined with other techniques, e.g., shear or light fields. From individual images we extract information on the particle arrangement and from sequences of images we determine the trajectories of the individual particles and thus information on the particle dynamics. The dynamics of particles is also investigated using differential dynamic microscopy (DDM). These imaging techniques are complemented by scattering methods, in particular static and dynamic light scattering, but also x-ray and neutron scattering which we perform at central facilities. Recently we started to use neutron imaging, which we adapt to obtain information on solvent flux into and through porous matrices. This set of measurement techniques provides us with detailed information on the structure and dynamics of soft matter systems on broad length and time scales, ranging from the microscopic particle level to macroscopic length scales. In addition, we perform stress and strain-controlled rheological experiments to characterize the macroscopic mechanical behaviour.

Using optical tweezer-like instruments, we manipulate samples on an individual particle level. Our set-ups are based on different optical methods, such as spatial light modulators or crossing laser beams.

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