Binary Colloidal Alloy Test (BCAT-6), Four Investigations
Research Area: Complex Fluids
Expedition(s): 25-ongoing
Principal Investigator(s): ● Arjun Yodh, PhD, University of Pennsylvania, University Park,
Pennsylvania
● David A. Weitz, PhD, Harvard University, Cambridge,
Massachusetts
● Matthew Lynch, PhD, Procter and Gamble, Cincinnati, Ohio
● Paul M. Chaikin, PhD, New York University, New York, New
York
RESEARCH OBJECTIVES
Binary Colloidal Allot Test-6 (BCAT-6) is a suite of 4 investigations that photograph randomized
colloidal samples in microgravity to determine their resulting structure over time. Results will
help scientists develop fundamental physics concepts previously hindered by the effects of
gravity. Data may lead to improvements in supercritical fluids used in rocket propellants
biotechnology applications, and advancements in fiber optics technology.
EARTH BENEFITS
These samples will provide important data that is not available on Earth. The data may guide
our understanding of phase separation. Additionally, product shelf-life may be dependent upon
bi-nodal decomposition and possibly upon Ostwald ripening in the emulsion samples.
SPACE BENEFITS
This experiment addresses basic physics questions, but some of the areas may eventually have
applications for self-assembly of nanoparticles in space.
Data analysis of the samples are ongoing.
This investigation is complete; however additional results are pending publication.