Stress correlations in complex fluids (C07)

• Subject Area: Statistical Physics, Nonlinear Dynamics, Complex Systems, Soft and Fluid Matter, Biological Physics ; Physical Chemistry of Molecules, Liquids and Interfaces, Biophysical Chemistry
• Term: since 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 425217212

Recent work in generalized fluctuating hydrodynamics predicts the persistence of stress and strain correlations in viscoelastic liquids over long distances. To date these correlations have not yet been investigated although important consequences on the formation of thin polymeric films are expected. We will develop an experimental method for monitoring stress and strain on a microscopic scale in viscoelastic polymer liquid films with high spatial and temporal resolution. This will allow cross-correlation of these fluctuations over mesoscopic distances in order to derive the far-field patterns also under flow. The analysis will be based on theoretical studies of the coupling of stress fields in polymer liquids to fluctuating interfaces incorporating macromolecular length and time scales.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1432: Fluctuations and Nonlinearities in Classical and Quantum Matter beyond Equilibrium
• Applicant Institution: Universität Konstanz
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Matthias Fuchs; Professor Dr. Andreas Zumbusch