Ling L.T, Zhang J., Wang C.F., Chen S.
Nanjing Tech University, CN
Keywords: alternative current electric field, assembly, direct observation, microspheres, microstructure design
The assembly of monodisperse polystyrene microspheres under alternative current electric field was applied as a model system to study the assembling mechanism for nanomaterials. The microspheres of about 1-2 μm in diameter enable us to directly observe the process. And the conditions, such as voltage and frequency of the electric field, surface charge of the spheres, solvents and salt concentration, were adjusted to obtain different microstructures of the assembly like chain, island and flower. Preliminary results indicates that surface states of the spheres plays a key role in the final structures while low dielectric constants of the solvents and high salt concentration only caused agglomeration of the microspheres. This work will bring new insight into the assembling process of the nanomaterials as well as understanding the mechanism controlling the microstructures of the assembly.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Nanotechnology 2014: Graphene, CNTs, Particles, Films & Composites
Published: June 15, 2014
Pages: 301 - 304
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Personal & Home Care, Food & Agriculture
Topics: Advanced Materials for Engineering Applications, Personal & Home Care, Food & Agriculture
ISBN: 978-1-4822-5826-4