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Title: Emergent Properties from Three-Dimensional Assemblies of (Nano)particles in Confined Spaces

Journal Article · · Crystal Growth and Design

The assembly of (nano)particles into compact hierarchical structures yields emergent properties not found in the individual constituents. The formation of these structures relies on a profound knowledge of the nanoscale interactions between (nano)particles, which are often designed by researchers aided by computational studies. These interactions have an effect when the (nano)particles are brought into close proximity, yet relying only on diffusion to reach these closer distances may be inefficient. Recently, physical confinement has emerged as an efficient methodology to increase the volume fraction of (nano)particles, rapidly accelerating the time scale of assembly. Specifically, the high surface area of droplets of one immiscible fluid into another facilitates the controlled removal of the dispersed phase, resulting in spherical, often ordered, (nano)particle assemblies. In this review, we discuss the design strategies, computational approaches, and assembly methods for (nano)particles in confined spaces and the emergent properties therein, such as trigger-directed assembly, lasing behavior, and structural photonic color. Finally, we provide a brief outlook on the current challenges, both experimental and computational, and farther afield application possibilities.

Research Organization:
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), Berkeley, CA (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
National Science Foundation (NSF); USDOE
Grant/Contract Number:
AC02-05CH11231
OSTI ID:
2470657
Journal Information:
Crystal Growth and Design, Journal Name: Crystal Growth and Design Journal Issue: 14 Vol. 24; ISSN 1528-7483
Publisher:
American Chemical SocietyCopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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