Non-equilibrium pattern formation and rheological responses in complex fluids

Non-equilibrium pattern formation processes are ubiquitous in nature, and are a truly cross-disciplinary phenomenon. We have discovered a novel pattern formation process occurring in confined granular-fluid systems, and our first results have now been acc epted for publication in Physical Review Letters. In a range of preliminary experiments we have observed a rich variety of new effects that we hereby propose to investigate deeper. These include changes in pattern forming dynamics and transitions to other types of patters never before studied, as well as similar processes occurring in particulate suspensions and gels. For these complex fluids it is important to characterize and understand their rheological responses, and an overseas period is therefore pl anned at a group specializing in micro-structured fluids. During the course of the project the experimental techniques, analysis methods, simulation programs and theoretical models will be developed in accordance with the challenges posed by each subproje ct. With the techniques and knowledge that we have developed so far, we have the best possible basis for conducting this research, and we anticipate several publications in leading international journals. In addition, soft condensed matter such as particu late suspensions and gels are of fundamental importance in a wide range of industrial processes and products, and our findings have potential relevance for applications in e.g. oil, pharmaceutical and food-related industries.