Ultrafast dynamics in complex fluids observed through the ultrafast optically-heterodyne-detected optical-Kerr-effect (OHD-OKE).

The ultrafast molecular dynamics of complex fluids have been recorded using the optically-heterodyne-detected optical-Kerr-effect (OHD-OKE). The OHD-OKE method is reviewed and some recent refinements to the method are described. Applications to a range of complex fluids, including microemulsions, polymer melts and solutions, liquid crystal and ionic liquids are surveyed. The level of detail attainable with the OHD-OKE method in these complex fluids is discussed. The prospects for future experiments are discussed.