Hierarchical nanoparticle/block copolymer surface features via synergistic self-assembly at the air-water interface

This work demonstrates the first example of the controlled organization of semiconducting nanoparticles (NPs) using amphiphilic block copolymer self-assembly at the air-water interface. Preferential interactions between polystyrene-functionalized NPs and the polystyrene block of an amphiphilic polystyrene-b-poly(ethylene oxide) block copolymer result in synergistic self-assembly at the air-water interface, forming a range of highly stable one-dimensional NP/polymer surface features, including branched nanowires, nanocables up to 100 microm in length, and nanowires with nanoring connectors. This strategy offers new routes to hierarchical hybrid assemblies with potential photonics applications because the nanoscale organization of NPs is coupled to features with dimensions that are commensurate with optical wavelengths.