Solvent-mediated self-assembly of nanocube superlattices

J Am Chem Soc. 2014 Jan 29;136(4):1352-9. doi: 10.1021/ja408250q. Epub 2014 Jan 15.

Abstract

Self-organization of colloidal Pt nanocubes into two types of distinct ordered superlattices, simple-cubic and body-centered-tetragonal structures, has been achieved using a home-built setup. Detailed translational and orientational characteristics of these superstructures were determined using a transmission electron microscopy tomographic technique with 3D reconstruction analysis. The formation of these distinct superlattices is the result of a delicate choice of solvent (i.e., aliphatic hexane or aromatic toluene hydrocarbons), which serves as a dispersion medium to fine-tune the relative strengths of ligand-ligand and ligand-solvent interactions during the self-assembly process. This work provides important insights into the effects of ligand-solvent interactions on superlattice formation from nonspherical nanoparticles.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Colloids / chemistry
  • Nanotubes / chemistry*
  • Particle Size
  • Platinum / chemistry*
  • Solvents / chemistry
  • Surface Properties

Substances

  • Colloids
  • Solvents
  • Platinum