(560d) Dissipative Microbalance (QCM-D) Studies of Self-Assembly Processes at the Nanoscale

Currently there are many technologies that can study the bulk properties of nanoparticles in solution (light scattering) as well as experimental methods that allow one to visualize particles (microscopy or fluorescence). However, there are few technologies that can provide real-time in-situ information regarding how nanoparticles interact with other molecules or materials. Recently we have been using the quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring technology (QCM-D) to quantify the interaction of particles with surfaces and other materials (biological and organic). We will first present recently published results that address the effect of stagnant and dynamic motion of chemically modified nanoparticles on their adsorption onto silica surfaces. We were able to follow the real-time assembly (in liquid) of these chemically-modified particles. By simultaneously quantifying the changes in surface mass and viscoelasticity during the adsorption process, we were subsequently able to model the adsorption characteristics of these nanoparticles. We will also discuss recent advances that have been made in regards to using QCM-D to follow the assembly of biological nanoparticles (such as cells, viruses and lipids) and polyelectrolytes.