Janus particles offer new physics, new technology

Steve Granick, a professor of materials science and engineering, of chemistry and of physics, has modified the surface of colloidal particles into a Janus chemical compound. "We can measure the rotational dynamics of single colloidal particles in suspension as well as at interfaces,” Granick said. “We can also take advantage of the particles’ two very dissimilar sides to create families of microsensors.” University of Illinois Photo