(666d) Inkjet Deposition of Layer by Layer Assembled Nanocomposites

Layer by layer (LBL) assembly has been used to create advanced functional nanocomposites with exceptional properties. The rinse step traditionally employed between each sequential material deposition to provide structural control during LBL not only contributes significantly to the processing time and waste, but also significantly limits the practical applications of the technique. Here we demonstrate that by employing inkjet technology to deliver finely controlled droplets of material, LBL assembly of nanocomposites can be achieved without a rinsing step. Additionally, the strictly additive nature of inkjet printing provides an excellent opportunity for flexible, multi-component, non-contact pattering that when combined with the formation of the insoluble complexes assembled by LBL allows for the simple production of multilayered nanocomposite patterns. The material stability, nano-scale control over thickness, micro-scale control over patterning and control over nano-phase coverage offered by the inkjet LBL technique will be demonstrated. As fabrication of controlled spatial distribution of chemical functionalities remains a challenge in the production of advanced materials, the developed technology offers strict material control without the incorporation of extensive fabrication times, stamps and masks, high processing temperatures, harsh chemicals or the creation of waste. This technology can be easily applied to flexible electronics and similar technologies.