Surface segregation of binary particles in photonic colloidal assemblies

ORAL

Abstract

A simple one-pot emulsion-based process offers unique advantages in controlling assembly of particles with applications in producing structural colors, self-stratifying coatings, and capsules for drug delivery. Here, we combine experiments and molecular dynamics simulations to demonstrate the importance of chemistry, density, and size of particles in controlling the surface segregation in photonic colloidal assemblies from a binary mixture of melanin and silica particles. Surface segregation also influences the structural colors of these supraballs. In addition, melanin is a multifunctional biological pigment and the control of its segregation at supraball surface leads to novel ways to modulate unique surface properties of colloidal assemblies.

–

Presenters

  • Ali N Dhinojwala

    Department of Polymer Science, The University of Akron, The University of Akron

Authors

  • Ming Xiao

    Department of Polymer Science, The University of Akron

  • Ziying Hu

    Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University

  • Thomas Gartner

    Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware

  • Xiaozhou Yang

    Department of Polymer Science, The University of Akron

  • Weiyao Li

    Department of Polymer Science, The University of Akron

  • Arthi Jayaraman

    University of Delaware, Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware

  • Nathan C. Gianneschi

    Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Chemistry, Northwestern University

  • Matthew D. Shawkey

    Department of Biology, University of Ghent

  • Ali N Dhinojwala

    Department of Polymer Science, The University of Akron, The University of Akron