Anisotropic colloidal particles near boundaries

Anisotropic colloidal particles are regularly found in applications ranging from health to energy. These particles, typically with non-uniform shape or surface chemistry, interact boundaries unique ways, offering pathways complex assemblies and active systems. Work this field over the past two decades rapidly advanced, last five years seeing significant innovation. One common thread joining many studies is that of presence form a nearby wall neighboring particle. Asymmetry introduced by boundary often leads surprising particle dynamics resulting anisotropic interactions. Herein, we provide background for area, some recent distinctive examples, describe work our group developing technique measure interactions particles. Note focused on “colloidal” size 0.1 10 μm externally internally generated fields. Within context, then motivate an ultra-microscopy called Scattering Morphology Resolved Total Internal Reflection Microscopy. Finally, finish perspective article identifying challenges providing outlook field.