Using micro to manipulate nano

Small. 2014 Jan 29;10(2):258-64. doi: 10.1002/smll.201301494. Epub 2013 Aug 6.

Abstract

A "Micro to nano" dewetting strategy is presented to generate multi-direction-controlled, precise-positioning 1D assemblies of conductive silver (Ag) NPs based on a superhydrophobicity-directed assembly strategy. Electrons can transport along linear NP assemblies and their behavior is sustained by coating a coaxial protecting layer outside the nanostructures. This new concept might open new routes for NP-based nanoelectronic circuit fabrication.

Keywords: micropillars; multi-directional; one-dimensional assembly; silver nanoparticles; superhydrophobic materials.