Is it possible to self-assemble an MgCu₂ Laves phase from complex building blocks? In this paper, we provide evidence that a mixture of hard tetramers and hard spheres could be used to this end. Colloidal tetramers can be synthesised in different ways and used in a sedimentation experiment together with colloidal spheres. Our theoretical results shed light on this self-assembly process, and show unambiguously that it is thermodynamically feasible.

What are the effects of geometry and interaction range on the fluid phase behaviour of Mickey Mouse particles? In this work, I investigate via computer simulations the interplay between gas-liquid phase separation and self-assembly of MM particles.

Patchy particles can have funny shapes, like in this case, where they are created in such a way that they resemble the logo of the great Disney's cartoon "Mickey Mouse". Clearly this choice is not driven by nostalgia, but by the idea to stabilise the aggregates formed in solution. Experiments and simulations are combined to show that such particles turn out to be really useful.

Patchy colloidal dumbbells can be modelled as two spheres fused with each other, where one of the two is attractive. Find out more on the structures these particles can form.