Programmed Wrapping and Assembly of Droplets with Mesoscale Polymers. (6th July 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Barber, Dylan M.; Yang, Zhefei; Prévost, Lucas; du Roure, Olivia; Lindner, Anke; Emrick, Todd; Crosby, Alfred J.
• Is Part Of: Advanced functional materials. Volume 30:Number 36(2020)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2020-07-06
• Subjects: bioinspired architectures -- capillary assemblies -- mesoscale -- photopatterning -- responsive materials; Materials -- Periodicals; Chemical vapor deposition -- Periodicals; 620.11
• DOI: 10.1002/adfm.202002704
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1616-301X

Abstract

Abstract: Nature is remarkably adept at using interfaces to build structures, encapsulate reagents, and regulate biological processes. Inspired by nature, flexible polymer‐based ribbons, termed "mesoscale polymers" (MSPs), are described to modulate interfacial interactions with liquid droplets. This produces unprecedented hybrid assemblies in the forms of flagellum‐like structures and MSP‐wrapped droplets. Successful preparation of these hybrid structures hinges on interfacial interactions and tailored MSP compositions, such as MSPs with domains possessing distinctly different affinity for fluid–fluid interfaces as well as mechanical properties. In situ measurements of MSP–droplet interactions confirm that MSPs possess a negligible bending stiffness, allowing interfacial energy to drive mesoscale assembly. By exploiting these interfacial driving forces, mesoscale polymers are demonstrated as a powerful platform that underpins the preparation of sophisticated hybrid structures in fluids. Abstract : Inspired by natural architectures, mesoscale polymer (MSP) ribbons of nanoscale thickness, microscale width, and macroscale length are fabricated and assembled with oil‐in‐water droplets. Designed with high bending compliance and custom pendent functionality, MSPs enable pH‐responsive and spatially selective assembly, affording spider silk‐like spools and droplets with flagellum‐like arms.