Near-zero surface pressure assembly of rectangular lattices of microgels at fluid interfaces for colloidal lithography

Understanding and engineering the self-assembly of soft colloidal particles (microgels) at liquid-liquid interfaces is broadening their use in colloidal lithography. Here, we present a new route to assemble rectangular lattices of microgels at near zero surface pressure relying on the balance between attractive quadrupolar capillary interactions and steric repulsion among the particles at water/oil interfaces. These self-assembled rectangular lattices are obtained for a broad range of particles and, after deposition, can be used as lithography masks to obtain regular arrays of vertically aligned nanowires via wet and dry etching processes.

Automated summary

By balancing attractive quadrupolar capillary interactions and steric repulsion among particles at the water/oil interface, rectangular lattices of microgels can be self-assembled at near zero surface pressure. These assemblies can serve as lithography masks for obtaining regular arrays of vertically aligned nanowires through wet and dry etching processes.