(3eb) Engineering Functionality Into Layer by Layer Assembled Nanocomposites

Hybrid nanocomposites create functional materials with enhanced and diversified properties as compared to their bulk counterparts. However, actual application of the highly desired properties of nanomaterials into functional devices requires radically new approaches to fabrication which achieve multiple combinations of diverse materials and complex multi-scale 3D architectures in a simple, low cost and versatile approach. Typical methods for preparing materials with 3D microscale features are often restricted by limited material variability, lack of control over the nanophase and challenging transitions to macroscale materials. Layer-by-layer assembly (LBL), the sequential adsorption of monolayers attracted by chemical forces, is an excellent technique for the fabrication of an extensive variety of highly controlled nanocomposites with exceptional properties unavailable by other means. Here we present a toolbox of new approaches to introduce controlled multiscale architecture to LBL materials for the simple transition into advanced technologies. As the ability to precisely tune material properties is critical for successful development of novel and improved functionalities, the developed techniques based on inkjet printing, photolithography, and colloidal crystal templates provide systematic control of chemical and structural features from the molecular scale through the macroscale. We will demonstrate successful elimination of intermediate rinsing steps for the generation of direct-write patterning of LBL materials, the creation of self-supporting channels, microcontainers and actuators from LBL materials, self-folding and shape memory strategies and finally 3D porous macroscale structures from LBL materials with controlled negative thermal expansion properties.