Multiple-scattering suppression in dilute and concentrated colloidal dispersions

Summary We describe the design and operation of an improved two-colour dynamic light scattering (TCDLS) equipment which effectively suppresses multiple scattering and allows the study of the Brownian dynamics of optically turbid samples. The technique operates by cross correlating scattered light of two different colours. With the appropriate scattering geometry, only singly scattered light contributes to the time-dependent part of the measured intensity cross-correlation function thus allowing straightforward interpretation of the data. To test the performance of the instrument we have studied several dilute colloidal suspensions, which, although dilute enough that free diffusion of the particles can be assumed, ranged from quite transparent to distinctly turbid. We have confirmed that the measured cross-correlation functions accurately reflect only single scattering even in the presence of strong multiple scattering. As a first application of the technique, we have performed light scattering measurements on concentrated suspensions of PMMA particles in cis-decalin. Paper presented at the I International Conference on Scaling Concepts and Complex Fluids, Copanello, Italy, July 4–8, 1994.