Self-assembly Patterning of Nano/Micro-Particles [Translated]†

We developed a self-assembly process of SiO2 particles to fabricate desired patterns of colloidal crystals having high feature edge acuity and high regularity. A micropattern of colloidal methanol prepared on a self-assembled monolayer in hexane was used as a mold for particle patterning, and slow dissolution of methanol into hexane caused shrinkage of molds to form micropatterns of close-packed SiO2 particle assemblies.We further developed spherical particle assemblies and micropatterns of them. Hydrophilic regions of a patterned self-assembled monolayer were covered with methanol solution containing SiO2 particles and immersed in decalin. Particles were assembled to form spherical shapes and consequently, micropatterns of spherical particle assemblies were successfully fabricated through self-assembly.This result is a step toward the realization of nano/micro periodic structures for next-generation photonic devices by a self-assembly process.† This report published originally in Japanese in J. Soc. Powder Technology, Japan, 43, 362-371 (2006), is published in KONA with the permission of the editorial committee of the Soc. Powder Technology, Japan.