Hierarchical self-organization of nanomaterials into two-dimensional arrays using functional polymer scaffold

Abstract

Fabrication of two and three-dimensional nanostructures requires the development of new methodologies for the assembly of molecular/macromolecular objects on substrates in predetermined arrangements. Templated self-assembly approach is a powerful strategy for the creation of materials from assembly of molecular components or nanoparticles. The present study describes the development of a facile, template directed self-assembly of (metal/organic) nanomaterials into periodic micro- and nanostructures. The positioning and the organization of nanomaterials into spatially well-denned arrays were achieved using an amphiphilic conjugated polymer-aided, self-organization process. Arrays of honeycomb patterns formed from conjugated C12PPPOH film with homogenous distribution of metal/organic nanomaterials. Our approach offers a straightforward and inexpensive method of preparation for hybrid thin films without environmentally controlled chambers or sophisticated instruments as compared to multistep micro-fabrication techniques. © 2008 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA.