Unraveling the peculiar internal structure of hematite microparticles

Hematite microparticles are becoming increasingly important in the soft matter field as they bear a unique combination of useful properties that allow various applications in soft matter in the field of self-assembly, active particle, photocatalysis and magnetic fluids, just to mention a few. In specific, cubic hematite microparticles have been at the core of many seminal works. However, the growth mechanism and the exact internal structure of the hematite microparticles remain uncertain. For example, what determines the cubic shape of these particles? In this project, we studying the internal structure of micron-sized hematite particles to understand the relationship between internal structure and particle properties. Furthermore, the results could shed light into the particles’ formation mechanism which in turn can help develop new particle shapes. In specific, we will study the internal structure of particles at different stages in the growth and dissolution process.