Coexistence diameter in two-dimensional colloid-polymer mixtures

Abstract

We demonstrate that the law of the rectilinear coexistence diameter in two-dimensional (2D) mixtures of non-spherical colloids and non-adsorbing polymers is violated. Upon approach of the critical point, the diameter shows logarithmic singular behavior governed by a term t ln(t), with t the relative distance from the critical point. No sign of a term t^2b could be detected, with b the critical exponent of the order parameter, indicating a very weak or absent Yang-Yang anomaly. Our analysis thus reveals that non-spherical particle shape alone is not sufficient for the formation of a pronounced Yang-Yang anomaly in the critical behavior of fluids.