DNA Patchy Particles via Fluid Solid Transition

DNA is an exceptional tool to direct self-assembly in colloids. Nevertheless, making complex or even functional arbitrary assemblies is still quite challenging. We present a novel route to create solid colloids with DNA patches holding different sequences that can expand the number of realizable self-assembled structures. Patch symmetries and DNA types are sorted in the liquid phase, while controlled transition to the solid phase freezes-in DNA designs for further assembly. High surface diffusion of DNA strands during fluid assembly enables us to obtain stable patchy particles with desired symmetries in the order minutes. The resultant high density of DNA strands within patches can drive the assembly over densely DNA coated particles. New multi-DNA patchy particles hold promise to access metastable regions in phase diagrams and unique opportunities for complex self-assembly.