There exist extensive theoretical predictions of an order-parameter fluctuation induced force between surfaces immersed in fluid mixtures near an immiscibility transition. This force is a thermal analog of the famous 'Casimir Force' which exists between uncharged conductors in vacuum as a consequence of quantum mechanical fluctuations of the electromagnetic field. Our long-term goal is to measure the functional form and magnitude of this condensed matter Casimir effect. As a first step toward this goal, UW Physics undergraduate Matthew Beerman has constructed an apparatus for the measurement of cloud points, and has begun using it to characterize immiscibility transitions of water-lutidine-nanocolloid systems. Shown below is a schematic of his apparatus, a photograph, and some data.
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