Gaining a Real-Time Glimpse Into How Nanoparticles Form Self-Assembling Crystals
In a new study, researchers have provided a real-time glimpse into the self-assembling process of nanoparticles into crystals. Using a combination of experiments and computer simulations, the team was able to observe how the nanoparticles form the crystalline structures as they interact with one another.
The researchers found that the nanoparticles self-organize into two-dimensional structures in a manner that resembles how atoms in a crystal are arranged. The nanoparticles form a lattice-like structure, with the particles connecting to each other in a regular pattern. This crystalline structure then grows larger as more nanoparticles join the lattice.
The study provides an important insight into the self-assembly process of nanomaterials, and could be used to further develop nanomaterials for a variety of applications.
source: Phys.org