Abstract EEC-9813636 Mudgil & Rajagopalan The purpose of this award is to broaden the scope, and enhance the quality of the research program of the ERC for Particle Science and Technology at the University of Florida by implementing a collaborative research program with Princeton University. Other participants of this collaborative effort are: Center for Research and Education in Optics and Laser, and NASA's Space Shuttle Microgravity Laboratory. The specific focus of this project is on the fundamental issues relevant to crystal growth, phase transition, and formation of nanocrystalline materials. Charged colloids will be used as models of condensed matter to investigate atomic level dynamics of nanocrystalline and nanostructured materials. The experiments will include direct visualization and optical manipulation of the microstructures. The data will be examined by a variety of theoretical techniques. The fundamental understanding gained from this collaborative effort will be applicable to the ERC's Engineered Particulates Thrust and Dispersion, Agglomeration, and Consolidation Thrust.
