Dynamic Light Scattering on Nanoparticles in Microgravity in a Drop Tower

Abstract Gravity affects colloidal dispersions via sedimentation and convection. We used dynamic light scattering (DLS) to quantify the mobility of nanoparticles on ground in microgravity. A DLS instrument was adapted withstand accelerations a drop tower, liquid handling set-up connected order stabilize temperature enable rapid cooling or heating. Light experiments were performed tower at ZARM (Bremen, Germany) during microgravity interval 9.1 s compared measurements ground. Particle dynamics analyzed constant after using series with 1 integration time. observed average gold core diameters 7.8 nm non-polar oleylamine shells that dispersed tetradecane had an hydrodynamic diameter 21 nm. The particles did not change their range. particle inferred from good agreement, demonstrating possibility perform reliable tower.