Higher-order synthesis of organoclay pipes using self-assembled lipid templates

The template-directed synthesis of helical ribbons and cylindrical micropipes (see Figure) of organically functionalized magnesium phyllosilicate clay is achieved by high fidelity decoration of self-assembled phospholipid tubules. The replicas are produced by electrostatic interactions between the positively charged organoclay precursors and charged lipid headgroups exposed on the surfaces of the organic template.