(332a) Polymer-guided interfacial assembly of nanoparticles into low-dimensional architectures

In this talk, I will discuss how polymer-grafted nanoparticles at fluid-fluid interfaces can self-assemble into unique higher-order structure due to the three-way competition between interparticle interactions and the interfacial tensions of the nanoparticle with the two liquids. I will begin by demonstrating through molecular dynamics simulations the interfacial assembly of spherical nanoparticles into open clusters with tunable orientation and bond angles; semi-linear structures like serpentine strings and branched networks; and layered structures such as corrugated monolayers and square-ordered bilayers. Next, I will show how tailored Monte Carlo minimization methods along with analytical models of interparticle and interfacial interactions can be used to quickly map out the full repertoire of layered architectures achievable through this assembly approach. Lastly, I will show, also via molecular dynamics simulations, how interfaces can be used to orient shaped nanoparticles, especially those with faceted geometries whose subsequent assembly at the interface can yield an interesting class of porous architectures. Overall, this work demonstrates the power of polymer-guided, interfacial assembly for fabricating next-generation nanoparticle architectures with possible applications in plasmonics, optics, membranes, and catalysis where control over particle orientation and spatial arrangement is critical for function.