MAGNETIC LYOTROPIC PHASES

We have demonstrated that it is possible to include tiny magnetic particles into different types of lyotropic phases, such as sponge, microemulsion or lamellar phases. The first point of interest in these results is to prove the compatibility between solid colloids and organized liquids. As for the hybrid lamellar phase, we have studied its phase diagram versus the smectic period and the particle concentration-which are the two relevant parameters-and deduced its range of stability. Moreover, this ferrosmectic phase exhibits original features when subjected to a magnetic field, even when it is very low: the lamellae orientate in the direction of the field. The detailed mechanism of this strong coupling between the spherical particles, the flexible membranes and the magnetic field is not fully understood, and deserves further experimental and theoretical study.