Tunable morphology and functionality of multicomponent self-assembly: A review. (1st January 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Li, Liangchun; Sun, Rongqin; Zheng, Renlin
• Is Part Of: Materials & design. Volume 197(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-01-01
• Subjects: Multicomponent -- Self-Assembly -- Co-Assembly -- Tunable -- Morphology And Functionality; Materials -- Periodicals; Engineering design -- Periodicals; Matériaux -- Périodiques; Conception technique -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 620.11
• DOI: 10.1016/j.matdes.2020.109209
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0264-1275

Abstract

Abstract: Programmed self-assembly and self-organization of well-designed molecular monomers have been widely used to design stable nanostructures with desired structures and unique functions. Due to the nature of the self-assembly process, it is difficult to control the size and morphology of the self-assembled nanomaterials. Multicomponent supramolecular self-assembly can be achieved to control the self-assembly process and provides the possibility to generate a wider and more complex structure, enhance modularity and provide spatiotemporal control of self-assembly. In this review, it is believed that multicomponent self-assembly may offer a new way to build tuning morphology and functionality materials. The tuning of morphology and functionality of multicomponent co-assembly was discussed according to the purpose of their mixing in the following three aspects separately: (1) one of the components can self-assemble individually, the other added components can tune the morphology and functionality of the assemblies, (2) all of the components can self-assemble individually, the mixture can strength the assemblies or generate new functionalities, (3) none of the components can self-assemble individually, but the mixtures can self-assemble into novel properties. Graphical abstract: Unlabelled Image Highlight: A comprehensive review of tunable morphology and functionality by multicomponent self-assembly of small molecules. Addressing the new properties emerged from multicomponent supramolecular self-assembly. Discussing the applications of multicomponent co-assembly.