Morphology selection of nanoparticle dispersions by polymer media

A systematic theory of ultrathin polymer films as organizing media to achieve 2D nanoparticle arrangements was developed. The key physical variables to achieve nanoparticle dispersions and control morphology were determined.open727

Organization of nanoparticles on soft polymer surfaces

We investigate the organization of gold nanocrystals on thin, fluid films consisting of polymer chains tethered by one end to an underlying substrate in a polymer brush configuration. The thickness of the polymer brush is comparable to the nanocrystal size. Thinner polymer brushes are found to suppress aggregation of the nanoparticles, leading to stable, elongated particle-rich domains. The results suggest new approaches for modification of macroscopic surfaces with nanoscopic particles.close535