Self-standing three-dimensional networks of nanoparticles with controllable morphology by dynamic templating of surfactant hexagonal domains

TitleSelf-standing three-dimensional networks of nanoparticles with controllable morphology by dynamic templating of surfactant hexagonal domains
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2011
AuthorsSharma, KP, Ganai, AKumar, Gupta, SSen, Kumaraswamy, G
JournalChemistry of Materials
Volume23
Issue6
Pagination1448-1455
Date PublishedAPR
Type of ArticleArticle
ISSN0897-4756
Keywordshexagonal, macroporous, nanoparticle, self assembly, surfactant
Abstract

Assembly of nanoparticles into free-standing three-dimensional networks has implications for a wide range of applications. We show that dynamic templating of surfactant hexagonal domains is a facile technique to organize nanoparticles into a network of particulate strands. Dispersed particles (> 10 nm), independent of particle chemistry, assemble into networks, when the surfactant matrix cools into the hexagonal phase. We demonstrate assembly of inorganic, polymeric, and protein nanoparticles into networks. Where particle assembly is reversible, particles are coated with polymers that are subsequently cross-linked to stabilize the networks after surfactant removal. This technique involves near ambient temperatures and a benign water wash for template removal. The network mesh size can be varied from submicrometers to tens of micrometers by controlling the cooling rate. Particle networks can be flow-oriented prior to cross-linking, and interpenetrating networks can also be formed.

DOI10.1021/cm102945x
Type of Journal (Indian or Foreign)Foreign
Impact Factor (IF)7.56
Divison category: 
Chemical Engineering & Process Development
Polymer Science & Engineering