Self-Organization of Highly Symmetric Nanoassemblies: A Matter of Competition

Abstract

The properties and applications of metallic nanoparticles are inseparably connected not only to their detailed morphology and composition, but also to their structural configuration and mutual interactions. As a result, the assemblies often have superior properties as compared to individual nanoparticles. Although it has been reported that nanoparticles can form highly symmetric clusters, if the configuration can be predicted as a function of the synthesis parameters, more targeted and accurate synthesis will be possible. We present here a theoretical model that accurately predicts the structure and configuration of self-assembled gold nanoclusters. The validity of the model is verified using quantitative experimental data extracted from electron tomography 3D reconstructions of different assemblies. The present theoretical model is generic and can in principle be used for different types of nanoparticles, providing a very wide window of potential applications.

Electron Tomography: A Unique Tool Solving Intricate Hollow Nanostructures

“…In this regard, the ET analysis with direct measurement through the consecutive tomograms or the 3D rendering of target object offers reliable information of interest, such as spatial configuration, [30,130] particle size, [131] void space dimensions, [66,132,133] porosity, [63] and element content/distribution. However, 2D images derived from conventional EM analysis typically render the spatial information flattened and overlapped, in most cases, providing misleading information.…”

“…[119,130] Although the packing of nanoparticles can be directly observed from TEM images, the information is still inadequate for the whole object regarding the limited and randomly exposed facet of the superstructure. [119,130] Although the packing of nanoparticles can be directly observed from TEM images, the information is still inadequate for the whole object regarding the limited and randomly exposed facet of the superstructure.…”

Formation of Highly Ordered Spherical Aggregates from Drying Microdroplets of Colloidal Suspension

“…28,29 It is worth noticing, that in order to investigate nanoparticle aggregates, a variety of methods have been proposed, such as: static light scattering, 30,31 small-angle X-rays scattering, [32][33][34][35] dynamic light scattering (DLS), 36 TEM and SEM 12,37 as well as electron tomography method. 27,38 Particularly valuable are these, which provide real time analysis of colloidal assembly in situ, i.e. light and X-ray scattering and spectroscopic methods.…”

Adsorption and desorption in confined geometries: A discrete hopping model

“…Microporous materials occur naturally, but can also be made in the laboratory. New fabrication techniques have led to a large increase in available materials, with a great diversity in possible structures [4,5,6]. Many applications require a proper understanding of how particles diffuse in these materials.…”