Highly Stretchable Nanoparticle Helices Through Geometric Asymmetry and Surface Forces

Abstract

Geometric asymmetry and surface forces are used directly the shape transformation of two-dimensional nanoparticle (NP)-based ribbons into three-dimensional helices. The balance between elasticity and surface tension dictates the helical radius dimension. NP helical ribbons have exceptional mechanical properties, displaying high stretchability, helical shape recovery after extension, and low-strain stiffness values similar to biological helices.

Functionalized core-shell hydrogel microsprings by anisotropic gelation with bevel-tip capillary

“…The complex compartmentalization of the microsprings (Figure S7) characterized by a laminar flow inside the capillary can also contribute to the optimization of their internal structure and functionality enhancement. Furthermore, microsprings composed of not only organic functional polymers1819202130, but also of inorganic materials can be potentially used in new applications involving rotation motions3132, latching33, THz electromagnetic metamaterials3435 and nanoparticle composite springs36. We envision that our proposed method for fabricating hydrogel microsprings could open new avenues to spring-based technologies in the materials science and microengineering fields.…”

Designer Matter: A perspective

“…Significant control can be achieved by biasing or directing the self-assembly process. For example, directional drying of a colloidal suspension can be used to create ultrathin nanoparticle-based ribbons [60] that can then be cross-linked into sheets to resemble woven fabrics [61]. A different kind of biasing involves manipulating the concentrations of different species participating in a self-assembly process.…”

Controlled evaporative self‐assembly of polymer nanoribbons using oscillating capillary bridges

“…A combination of a uniform meniscus shape and a programmed meniscus depinning is required to deposit homogeneous nanoribbons with controlled dimensions . Uniform meniscus shape and height provides a consistent nanoribbon cross section, and meniscus depinning controls the duration of particle assembly and nanoribbon spacing .…”

“…Kim et al used a stop‐go motion of the substrate to control the depinning of the meniscus . This modified ESA method, termed “stop‐and‐go” flow coating, is described as a geometrically confined and programmed “coffee‐ring” effect . The stop‐and‐go instrument setup uses a substrate attached to a linear motorized stage and a fixed blade.…”