ABSTRACT

In recent years, the research of two-dimensional (2D) colloids at uid interfaces has received increased attention (see, e.g., reference [1]). The reasons for this can be classi ed roughly into two groups: (i) New technologies offer a higher degree of control of the system’s physical parameters, thus expanding the spectrum of systematic experimental studies. One can mention the controlled engineering of colloidal particles with the desired physicochemical properties, the techniques of particle positioning and real-time tracking with submicrometer resolution, and the measurement of forces with piconewton resolution. (ii) 2D colloids have an intrinsic interest from the point of view of fundamental questions and applications: one can address, for example, the in uence of dimensionality on physical properties, the controlled assembly of microstructures out of 2D colloids, or the particle ow at uid interfaces in micro uidic devices. Finally, 2D colloids at uid interfaces may serve as simple models for naturally occurring complex systems like the membrane of living cells.