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arXiv · 2403.09523

Vortex pattern stabilization in thin films resulting from shear thickening of active suspensions

Henning Reinken·Andreas M. Menzel
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Abstract

The need for structuring on micrometer scales is abundant, for example, in view of phononic applications. We here outline a novel approach based on the phenomenon of active turbulence on the mesoscale. As we demonstrate, a shear-thickening carrier fluid of active microswimmers intrinsically stabilizes regular vortex patterns of otherwise turbulent active suspensions. The fluid self-organizes into a periodically structured nonequilibrium state. Introducing additional passive particles of intermediate size leads to regular spatial organization of these objects. Our approach opens a new path towards functionalization through patterning of thin films and membranes.

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Henning Reinken, Andreas M. Menzel. 2024-03-14. Vortex pattern stabilization in thin films resulting from shear thickening of active suspensions. https://doi.org/10.1103/physrevlett.132.138301

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