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Transformation and patterning of supermicelles using dynamic holographic assembly
Oliver E C Gould1, Huibin Qiu2, David J Lunn2
1Bristol Centre for Functional Nanomaterials, HH Wills Physics Laboratory, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TL, UK.
Nature Communications
|December 3, 2015
Summary
Researchers used optical tweezers to precisely control block copolymer supermicelles, enabling the creation of novel soft-matter nanostructures and ordered arrays for diverse applications.
Area of Science:
- Soft Matter Physics
- Nanotechnology
- Supramolecular Chemistry
Background:
- Block copolymer self-assembly creates complex nanostructures.
- Precise manipulation and patterning of these structures is a significant challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate the manipulation and patterning of block copolymer supermicelles using dynamic holographic assembly (optical tweezers).
- To create new, stable soft-matter superstructures far from equilibrium.
- To enable directed deposition and immobilization of supermicelles on surfaces.
Main Methods:
- Hierarchical self-assembly of block copolymer micelle and block comicelle precursors into spherical and linear supermicelles.
- Dynamic holographic assembly (optical tweezers) for manipulation, transformation, and patterning.
- Photocrosslinking of supermicelles via controlled coronal chemistry.
Main Results:
- Individual spherical supermicelles were optically held and photocrosslinked to form linear oligomeric arrays.
- Optical tweezers facilitated directed deposition and immobilization of supermicelles on surfaces.
- Precise arrays of soft-matter nano-objects with potential for diverse functionality were created.
Conclusions:
- Dynamic holographic assembly offers unprecedented control over block copolymer supermicelles.
- This technique allows for the creation of stable, non-equilibrium soft-matter superstructures.
- The precise patterning capabilities open avenues for novel nano-object arrays with broad applications.
