Aggregation and Deformation Induced Reorganisation of Colloidal Suspension

Various mechanisms can lead to colloidal aggregation. Attractive interactions being the most prominent amongst them. In this chapter we describe the synthesis of well defined colloids with a smooth or rough surface, their mechanical characterization, controlled aggregation and the study of the mechanical and structural properties of the colloids and the formed aggregates. Depending on the interplay between the properties of the single colloids, the interactions between the colloids and the structure formed by the colloids, the macroscopic response of the system can greatly change.