Interfacial dynamics and the static profile near a single wall in a model colloid polymer mixture

We report measurements on gas–liquid phase-separating colloid–polymer mixtures. A horizontally placed optical microscope with long-working-distance objectives enables us to see effects of gravity on phase separation kinetics and hence see the complete phase separation from beginning to end. Furthermore, the static profile near a single wall is analysed giving surface tensions in good agreement with scaling predictions as well as results from another experimental technique. The contact angle remains, however, intangible.