Binary Superlattices of Gold Nanoparticles in Two Dimensions

We have created two-dimensional (2D) binary superlattices by cocrystallizinggold nanoparticles (AuNPs) of two distinct sizes into root 3x root 3 and 2x2 complex binarysuperlattices, derived from the hexagonal structures of the single components. The buildingblocks of these binary systems are AuNPs that are functionalized with different chain lengthsof poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). The assembly of these functionalized NPs at the air-waterinterface is driven by the presence of salt, causing PEG-AuNPs to migrate to the aqueoussurface and assemble into a crystalline lattice. We have used liquid surface X-ray reflectivity(XR) and grazing incidence small-angle X-ray scattering (GISAXS) to examine the assemblyand crystallization at the liquid interface

Automated summary

The researchers have successfully created two-dimensional binary superlattices by assembling gold nanoparticles at the air-water interface. These superlattices are derived from the assembly of polyethylene glycol-functionalized gold nanoparticles and exhibit specific crystalline structures.