Non-Equilibrium Fluctuations in Colloids under Effective Gravity (NEFCoEG)

Colloidal sedimentation — the settling of microscopic particles in a fluid under gravity — is a classical yet surprisingly unresolved problem in soft matter physics. While theoretical models predict how particles should behave, experimental results often contradict these predictions, particularly regarding non-equilibrium velocity fluctuations. This discrepancy, known as the divergence paradox, highlights a fundamental gap in our understanding of driven, out-of-equilibrium systems.

The innovation lies in combining high-resolution quantitative imaging with custom-engineered sample environments — a contribution that is not covered by ESA contracts, yet essential for the scientific success of the space mission. The project also involves direct support to Airbus and DLR for the validation of the FLUMIAS instrument.

The expected outcomes include new theoretical and experimental insights into non-equilibrium fluctuations, optimized sample preparation protocols for space applications, and open-access software for image-based flow analysis. This work strengthens Austria’s role in international space research and contributes to the long-term development of sustainable, high-precision experimental platforms in soft matter physics.