Projects per year
Abstract
The realization of non-close-packed nanoscale patterns with multiple feature sizes and length scales via colloidal self-assembly is a highly challenging task. We demonstrate here the creation of a variety of tunable particle arrays by harnessing the sequential self-assembly and deposition of two differently sized microgel particles at the fluid-fluid interface. The two-step process is essential to achieve a library of 2D binary colloidal alloys, which are kinetically inaccessible by direct co-assembly. These versatile binary patterns can be exploited for a range of end-uses. Here we show that they can for instance be transferred to silicon substrates, where they act as masks for the metal-assisted chemical etching of binary arrays of vertically aligned silicon nanowires (VA-SiNWs) with fine geometrical control. In particular, continuous binary gradients in both NW spacing and height can be achieved. Notably, these binary VA-SiNW platforms exhibit interesting anti-reflective properties in the visible range, in agreement with simulations. The proposed strategy can also be used for the precise placement of metallic nanoparticles in non-close-packed arrays. Sequential depositions of soft particles enable therefore the exploration of complex binary patterns, e.g. for the future development of substrates for biointerfaces, catalysis and controlled wetting.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 22189-22195 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Nanoscale |
Volume | 10 |
Issue number | 47 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 21 Dec 2018 |
Projects
- 1 Finished
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Orchestrating cellular processes by engineering Si nanowire architectures
Elnathan, R. (Primary Chief Investigator (PCI))
6/03/17 → 1/06/20
Project: Research
Equipment
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Melbourne Centre for Nanofabrication (MCN)
Langelier, S. (Manager)
Office of the Vice-Provost (Research and Research Infrastructure)Facility/equipment: Facility