Ordered arrays of large latex particles organised by vertical deposition

The simple preparation of the ordered multilayer films of submicrometer- and micrometer-sized monodisperse latex particles in the range of 0.2-2.5 mum is reported. The films were prepared from aqueous suspensions by vertical deposition at elevated temperatures. Both hydrophobic polystyrene (PS) and hydrophilic core-shell particles allowed good arrays formation. 3D lattice was proved by transmission and reflectance VIS-NIR spectroscopy. Well-developed Bragg peaks of up to 3200 nm, have been registered. An observation of Fabry-Perot resonances in the spectra confirms good array quality. The optical properties of the grating were investigated by laser diffraction and by diffraction via an optical microscope equipped with a Betrand lens. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.