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arXiv · 0710.5889

Self-diffusion of Rod-like Viruses Through Smectic Layer

M. Paul Lettinga·Eric Grelet
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Abstract

We report the direct visualization at the scale of single particles of mass transport between smectic layers, also called permeation, in a suspension of rod-like viruses. Self-diffusion takes place preferentially in the direction normal to the smectic layers, and occurs by quasi-quantized steps of one rod length. The diffusion rate corresponds with the rate calculated from the diffusion in the nematic state with a lamellar periodic ordering potential that is obtained experimentally.

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M. Paul Lettinga, Eric Grelet. 2007-10-31. Self-diffusion of Rod-like Viruses Through Smectic Layer. https://doi.org/10.1103/physrevlett.99.197802

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